basilar membrane

noun

, Anatomy.

1. a supporting membrane, especially the membrane that supports the organ of Corti in the ear and aids in translating sound vibrations into electrical signals.

Word History and Origins

Origin of basilar membrane¹

First recorded in 1865–70

Example Sentences

A soft tissue structure called the basilar membrane, while not present in the fossil itself, was indicated by other parts of the ear to be of a size and thickness consistent with high-frequency hearing.

From New York Times

Each arch rests on the basilar membrane, and supports rows of cells having minute hair-like processes.

From Project Gutenberg

A sound wave sets your eardrum vibrating, which ultimately causes a spiraling membrane within the inner ear called the basilar membrane to vibrate, too.

From Science Magazine

Her words fell upon his ears, setting up vibrations and oscillations in the basilar membranes.

From Project Gutenberg

Periopticon: a complex nerve structure back of the basilar membrane of the eye.

From Project Gutenberg