Definition

1. Noun:
   • A large hemispherical brass or copper percussion instrument with a drumhead that can be tuned by adjusting the tension on it: This refers to a specific type of musical instrument, also commonly known as a timpani or kettledrum.
   • The membrane in the ear that vibrates to sound: This is the biological membrane, also called the eardrum, which transmits sound vibrations to the inner ear.
   • The main cavity of the ear; between the eardrum and the inner ear: This anatomical term refers to the middle ear cavity.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Musical Instrument):

  • The orchestra's tympanum provided a deep, resonant roll.
  • He tuned the tympanum carefully before the concert.

• Noun (Eardrum):

  • A loud explosion can rupture the tympanum.
  • The doctor examined her tympanum for signs of infection.

• Noun (Middle Ear Cavity):

  • An infection developed in the tympanum, causing pain and hearing loss.
  • The tympanum contains three small bones known as ossicles.

Advanced Usage

• Architectural Context: In classical architecture, "tympanum" can refer to the triangular or segmental space enclosed between the lintel and the arch above a doorway. (Note: This is a distinct, specialized meaning not covered in the core definitions but is a common advanced usage).
  • The cathedral's ornate tympanum was carved with biblical scenes.

Variants and Related Words

• Tympanic (adj): Relating to or resembling a drum or the eardrum.
  • The tympanic membrane is another name for the eardrum.
• Tympanist (n): A person who plays the timpani.
  • The principal tympanist has a solo in the second movement.

Synonyms

• For the eardrum: Eardrum, tympanic membrane.
• For the percussion instrument: Timpani (plural), kettledrum.
• For the middle ear cavity: Middle ear, tympanic cavity.

Related Phrases

• Tympanic reflex: The involuntary contraction of muscles in the middle ear in response to loud sounds.
• Tympanic thermometer: A thermometer that measures body temperature from the ear canal by reading infrared heat from the tympanic membrane.

Noun

1. a large hemispherical brass or copper percussion instrument with a drumhead that can be tuned by adjusting the tension on it
2. the membrane in the ear that vibrates to sound
3. the main cavity of the ear; between the eardrum and the inner ear