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

Ear pinning refers to a cosmetic procedure that permanently alters the appearance of the outer ears, whether in relation to shape, position or size, by bringing them closer to the head, according to the Cleveland Clinic. —Michelle Lee, People.com, 21 Feb. 2025

Scientists have long wondered about the evolutionary origins of outer ears, which are unique to mammals. —Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 23 Jan. 2025

The gills themselves—which fish use to breathe underwater—did not literally transform into outer ears. —Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 23 Jan. 2025

Although other vertebrates have ears, only mammals sport the protruding, elaborate structures known as external or outer ears. —Bymitch Leslie, science.org, 9 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1701, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for outer ear

• auctioneer
• bandelier
• belvedere
• bombardier
• brigadier
• buccaneer
• cavalier
• chandelier
• chanticleer
• chevalier
• commandeer
• disappear

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