Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
The stapes is a small stirrup-shaped bone in the middle ear that plays a critical role in transmitting sound vibrations from the middle ear to the inner ear. It is one of the three auditory ossicles, making it essential for hearing.
Related terms
Auditory ossicles: The three small bones found in the middle ear (including the malleus, incus, and stapes) that transmit sound vibrations from the eardrum to the inner ear.
A spiral-shaped cavity forming a major part of the inner ear, responsible for converting sound vibrations into nerve impulses which are sent to the brain.
Tympanic membrane: Also known as the eardrum, it receives sound vibrations from the outer air and transmits them to the auditory ossicles