Word: Ear Canal
Definition: The ear canal is a tube-like passage in the outer part of the ear. It connects the outer ear (the part you can see) to the eardrum (also known as the tympanic membrane), which is deeper inside the ear. The ear canal helps carry sound waves to the eardrum.
Usage Instructions: You can use "ear canal" when talking about the anatomy of the ear or when discussing ear health. It's commonly used in medical contexts or when talking about hearing.
Example Sentence: "The doctor examined my ear canal to check for any signs of infection."
Advanced Usage: In more advanced discussions, you might talk about how the ear canal can be affected by different conditions, such as earwax buildup or infections, and how these can impact hearing.
Word Variants: - Ear (noun): The entire organ of hearing. - Canal (noun): A tube-like structure in various contexts (not just the ear).
Different Meaning: The term "canal" can also refer to artificial waterways used for transportation or irrigation, but in this context, it specifically refers to the passage in the ear.
Synonyms: There are no direct synonyms for "ear canal," but related terms include: - Auditory canal - External auditory meatus
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs: There are not specific idioms or phrasal verbs that include "ear canal," but you might hear phrases like: - "In one ear and out the other," which means that someone doesn't pay attention to what is being said.