How Do You Spell TYMPANIC CELL?

1. A tympanic cell refers to a small, hollow structure located in the middle ear cavity, specifically within the tympanic part of the temporal bone. This part of the bone is mainly involved in transmitting and amplifying sound waves between the outer ear and the inner ear.

   Tympanic cells are an essential component of the middle ear system, working in conjunction with the auditory ossicles (three tiny bones: malleus, incus, and stapes) and the eardrum (tympanic membrane). These cells are lined by a specialized epithelial tissue and are connected to the Eustachian tube, which serves to equalize pressure in the middle ear.

   The primary purpose of tympanic cells is to facilitate the transmission of sound vibrations from the eardrum to the inner ear. When sound waves enter the ear canal, they cause the eardrum to vibrate. These vibrations are then transmitted via the auditory ossicles to the tympanic cells. The tympanic cells further amplify the vibrations before passing them onto the cochlea, the spiral-shaped structure responsible for converting sound into electrical signals that can be interpreted by the brain.

   Tympanic cells also play a vital role in maintaining the pressure equilibrium within the middle ear cavity. The Eustachian tube, connected to the tympanic cells, helps prevent a buildup of pressure by allowing excess air to escape. This function is crucial for preventing discomfort or damage to the eardrum and auditory system.

2. Cellula tympanica.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for TYMPANIC CELL

The word "tympanic" originates from the Greek word "tympanon", which means "drum". It is derived from the Latin word "tympanum", meaning "drum", or "drumhead". In anatomical terms, "tympanic" refers to structures associated with the eardrum or middle ear.

The word "cell" has a different etymology. It comes from the Old English word "cyl", which means "small room" or "chamber". It is derived from the Latin word "cella", meaning "small room" or "storeroom".

When combining these two words, "tympanic cell" refers to the small chambers or spaces found within the middle ear, specifically within the mastoid process of the temporal bone. These cells are connected to the Eustachian tube and are important for air pressure regulation and sound transmission.