outer ear

noun

: the outer visible portion of the ear that collects and directs sound waves toward the tympanic membrane by way of a canal which extends inward through the temporal bone

Examples of outer ear in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The risk for meningitis may be higher because the implant creates a pathway from the outer ear to the inner ear, which is normally sterile. —Kelly Burch Published, Verywell Health, 11 Dec. 2024

The main one is contact—that is, how designers can ensure adequate continuous contact between an earbud and the skin of the outer ear canal. —IEEE Spectrum, 1 May 2019

What Is an Ear Infection? Types of Inner Ear Infections The ear has three distinct sections: the outer ear, the middle ear, and the inner ear. —Rachael Zimlich, Bsn, Rn, Verywell Health, 21 Oct. 2024

Although evidence is mixed, researchers found stimulating points in the outer ear—auricular acupuncture—to help with quitting smoking when combined with other methods.13 Mindfulness: Another method that may help people quit tobacco is mindfulness. —Mark Gurarie, Health, 26 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1701, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

outer ear

noun

: the outer visible part of the ear that collects and directs sound waves toward the eardrum by way of a canal through the temporal bone

Medical Definition

outer ear

noun

out·​er ear ˈau̇t-ər- 

: the outer visible portion of the ear that collects and directs sound waves toward the tympanic membrane by way of a canal which extends inward through the temporal bone