ossicle (C1)
noun
Pronunciation: /ˈɒsɪkl/
Definition
A very small bone, especially one of the three bones in the middle ear (malleus, incus, and stapes) that transmit sound vibrations to the inner ear.
Examples
Damage to the ossicles can lead to significant hearing loss.
The stapes is the smallest ossicle and the smallest bone in the human body.
Scientists studied the fossilized ossicles to understand the hearing capabilities of ancient mammals.
How to Use ossicle
- middle ear ossicles (collocation)
- The three small bones in the middle ear. — "The middle ear ossicles are crucial for transmitting sound."
- auditory ossicles (collocation)
- Another term for the middle ear bones. — "Problems with the auditory ossicles can impair hearing."
Synonyms of ossicle
Words with a similar meaning to ossicle:
Antonyms of ossicle
Words with the opposite meaning to ossicle:
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