Word: External Ear
Part of Speech: Noun
Definition: The "external ear" refers to the part of the ear that you can see on the outside of your head. It includes the visible part called the auricle (or pinna) and the ear canal, which leads into the inner parts of the ear.
Usage Instructions:
You can use "external ear" when talking about the anatomy of the ear, especially in medical or scientific contexts.
It is also useful in discussions about hearing, sound, and related health topics.
Example:
Advanced Usage:
In medical contexts, you might hear terms like "auricle" or "pinna" used interchangeably with "external ear," but these refer specifically to the outer part.
In discussions about hearing loss, one might say, "Damage to the external ear can affect sound perception."
Word Variants:
Auricle: This is another term specifically for the visible part of the external ear.
Pinna: A synonym for the auricle, often used in biological discussions.
Different Meanings:
The term "ear" on its own can refer to the whole organ, including the external ear, middle ear, and inner ear.
In some contexts, "ear" may also refer to the ability to hear or understand (e.g., "She has a good ear for music").
Synonyms:
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
"In one ear and out the other": This idiom means that someone is not paying attention; they hear something but forget it quickly.
"Ear to the ground": This idiom means to be aware of what is happening, especially in a particular field or situation.
Summary:
The "external ear" is the part of the ear you can see, playing a crucial role in hearing. When discussing anatomy or health, it's important to distinguish it from the inner parts of the ear.