Eardrum

Definition

The eardrum, also known as the tympanic membrane, is a thin, flexible membrane that separates the outer ear from the middle ear. It vibrates when sound waves strike it.

Related terms

Hammer (Malleus): This is one of the three tiny bones in the middle ear that connects to the eardrum and transmits its vibrations to the inner ear.

Anvil (Incus): Another one of the three tiny bones in the middle ear that receives vibrations from the hammer and passes them on to the stirrup.

Stirrup (Stapes): The third bone in the chain of ossicles (tiny bones) in our middle ear. It receives vibrations from the anvil and transmits them to the cochlea.