tym·pa·num also tim·pa·num (t m p -nm)n. pl. tym·pa·na also tim·pa·na (-n ) or tym·pa·nums also tim·pa·nums 1. a. Anatomy See middle ear. b. See eardrum. 2. Zoology A membranous external auditory structure, as in certain insects. 3. Architecture a. The ornamental recessed space or panel enclosed by the cornices of a triangular pediment. b. A similar space between an arch and the lintel of a portal or window. 4. The diaphragm of a telephone. [Medieval Latin, from Latin, drum, from Greek tumpanon.] |
tympanum
Noun
pl -nums or -na
1. Anat
a. the cavity of the middle ear
b. same as tympanic membrane
2. Archit the recessed space between the arch and the lintel above a door [Greek tumpanon drum]
tympanic adj
ThesaurusLegend: Synonyms Related Words Antonyms
| Noun | 1. |  tympanum - the main cavity of the ear; between the eardrum and the inner earauditory apparatus - all of the components of the organ of hearing including the outer and middle and inner ears auditory tube, Eustachian tube - either of the paired tubes connecting the middle ears to the nasopharynx; equalizes air pressure on the two sides of the eardrum |
| 2. |  tympanum - the membrane in the ear that vibrates to soundear - the sense organ for hearing and equilibrium perforated eardrum - an eardrum with a hole or tear in it; can interfere with normal hearing and cause other ear problems umbo - a slight rounded elevation where the malleus attaches to the eardrum tissue layer, membrane - a pliable sheet of tissue that covers or lines or connects the organs or cells of animals or plants | |
| 3. |  tympanum - a large hemispherical brass or copper percussion instrument with a drumhead that can be tuned by adjusting the tension on itpercussion instrument, percussive instrument - a musical instrument in which the sound is produced by one object striking another |
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