ear canal

noun

: the tubular passage of the outer ear leading to the tympanic membrane

Examples of ear canal in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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In this recent study, researchers in China analyzed wax swabbed from the ear canals of 209 participants, 108 of whom had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s. Amy McGorry, FOXNews.com, 26 June 2025 There are external microphones for monitoring outside ambient sounds, plus interior microphones monitoring the ear canal to sweep up any noise making it through the acoustic seal of the ear tips. Mark Sparrow, Forbes.com, 26 June 2025 Photograph: Chris Null As anyone who’s ever stuck a cotton swab in there knows, your ear canal is a filthy, disgusting place. Christopher Null, Wired News, 22 June 2025 Blockage of the ear canal due to earwax or other substances can also cause tinnitus, as can suffering from an ear infection or head or neck injury. Daryl Austin, USA Today, 16 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for ear canal

Word History

First Known Use

1859, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ear canal was in 1859

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Cite this Entry

“Ear canal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ear%20canal. Accessed 5 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

ear canal

noun

Medical Definition

ear canal

noun
: the tubular passage of the outer ear leading to the tympanic membrane
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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