inner ear

noun

: the essential organ of hearing and equilibrium that is located in the temporal bone, is innervated by the auditory nerve, and includes the vestibule, the semicircular canals, and the cochlea

Examples of inner ear in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Spatial disorientation occurs when sensory information from the inner ear provides a powerfully misleading sensation of up and down. —Jeff Wise, Vulture, 30 Mar. 2026

His inner ears were playing tricks with his sense of orientation… His flight path into the water is consistent with what is known as a graveyard spiral. —Erin Jensen, USA Today, 26 Mar. 2026

Eighth generation bone conduction technology uses vibrations to transmit sound through your cheekbone directly to your inner ear for a premium audio experience, leaving your eardrums open to surroundings. —Tory Johnson, ABC News, 21 Mar. 2026

To make the inner ear shapes, trace your child's pinky finger onto two pieces of white felt. —Annabelle Canela, Parents, 14 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1855, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for inner ear

• auctioneer
• bandelier
• belvedere
• bombardier
• brigadier
• buccaneer
• cavalier
• chandelier
• chanticleer
• chevalier
• commandeer
• disappear

Kids Definition

inner ear

noun

: the part of the ear that is most important for hearing, is located in a cavity in the temporal bone, and contains the ends of the nerves which send nerve impulses concerned with hearing and balance to the brain

Medical Definition

inner ear

noun

: the essential part of the vertebrate organ of hearing and equilibrium that typically is located in the temporal bone, is innervated by the auditory nerve, and includes the vestibule, the semicircular canals, and the cochlea

called also internal ear