auricle

[ awr-i-kuhl ]

noun

1. Anatomy.
   1. the projecting outer portion of the ear; pinna.
   2. Also called au·ric·u·lar ap·pend·age [aw-, rik, -y, uh, -ler , uh, -, pen, -dij]. an ear-shaped appendage projecting from each atrium of the heart.
   3. (loosely) the atrium.
2. Botany, Zoology. a part like or likened to an ear.

auricle

/ ˈɔːrɪkəl /

noun

1. 1. the upper chamber of the heart; atrium
   2. a small sac in the atrium of the heart
2. Also calledpinna anatomy the external part of the ear
3. Also calledauricula biology an ear-shaped part or appendage, such as that occurring at the join of the leaf blade and the leaf sheath in some grasses

auricle

/ ôr′ĭ-kəl /

1. The visible part of the outer ear.
2. An atrium of the heart.

Derived Forms

• ˈauricled, adjective

Other Word Forms

• au·ri·cled adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of auricle¹

First recorded in 1645–55, auricle is from the Latin word auricula the (external) ear, ear lobe. See auri- ², -cle ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of auricle¹

C17: from Latin auricula the external ear, from auris ear

Example Sentences

Humans do have weak vestigial muscles attached to the shell of the ear, called the auricle or pinna, as well as evidence of a vestigial nervous system, which could have functioned to orient the ears.

From New York Times

In relation to human embryology the smooth sinus venosus and reticulated auricle are interesting.

From Project Gutenberg

Mostly stiff, with short erect closely flowered spikes, an entirely staminate terminal spike, dark colored scales, and bracts with purple or black auricles at base; stigmas 2 or 3.—Sp.

From Project Gutenberg

Even after twelve hours both auricles responded to the same stimulus, though the ventricles remained motionless.

From Project Gutenberg

Having two auricles, as the heart of mammals, birds, and reptiles.

From Project Gutenberg