inner ear

noun

: the essential organ of hearing and equilibrium that is located in the temporal bone, is innervated by the auditory nerve, and includes the vestibule, the semicircular canals, and the cochlea

Examples of inner ear in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

For instance, the inner ear connects with neurons in the brain that are responsible for processing sounds. —Sherri Gordon, Parents, 29 July 2024

For the new research, the scientists examined a bone fragment from the side and base of a skull—including parts of the inner ear—discovered in 1989 in Cova Negra, a cave site in Spain. —Will Sullivan, Smithsonian Magazine, 27 June 2024

Ménière disease: This is an inner ear disorder that triggers problems with balance and hearing. —Yuliya Klochan, Health, 19 June 2024

For example, a fracture to the thin bone in that region of the skull, an epidural hematoma (or bleeding between the skull and the brain) and damage to the bones of the inner ear, which can result in hearing loss, vertigo or dizziness. —Dr. Sanjay Gupta, CNN, 18 July 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1855, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

inner ear

noun

: the part of the ear that is most important for hearing, is located in a cavity in the temporal bone, and contains the ends of the nerves which send nerve impulses concerned with hearing and balance to the brain

Medical Definition

inner ear

noun

: the essential part of the vertebrate organ of hearing and equilibrium that typically is located in the temporal bone, is innervated by the auditory nerve, and includes the vestibule, the semicircular canals, and the cochlea

called also internal ear