tympanic

[ tim-pan-ik ]

adjective

1. pertaining or belonging to a tympanum.

tympanic

/ tɪmˈpænɪk /

adjective

1. anatomy architect of, relating to, or having a tympanum
2. of, relating to, or resembling a drumhead

Other Words From

• posttym·panic adjective
• pretym·panic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of tympanic¹

First recorded in 1800–10; tympan(um) + -ic

Example Sentences

"The ear drum, or tympanic membrane, is a thin, flat piece of tissue that stretches across the ear canal," said Hoberman.

From Science Daily

She recounts 19th-century surgical procedures to perforate the tympanic membrane and methods for unblocking Eustachian tubes with smoke.

From Washington Post

And while ear, or tympanic, temperature checks might be the more convenient way to check for fevers, they are not the most accurate.

From Seattle Times

One person’s hiccups were even caused by a hair brushing against their tympanic membrane, the membrane that vibrates in response to sound waves and enables us to hear.

From Scientific American

Sure, having his tympanic membrane rattled when the 1980 Corvette’s 750-horsepower engine roared to life was cool and all, but Alcott was more interested in the sports car’s sleek lines.

From Washington Times