TYMPANUM

kettle, kettledrum, tympanum, tympani, timpani

(noun) a large hemispherical brass or copper percussion instrument with a drumhead that can be tuned by adjusting the tension on it

eardrum, tympanum, tympanic membrane, myringa

(noun) the membrane in the ear that vibrates to sound

Source: WordNet® 3.1


Etymology

Noun

tympanum (plural tympanums or tympana)

(architecture) A triangular space between the sides of a pediment.

(architecture) The space within an arch, and above a lintel or a subordinate arch, spanning the opening below the arch.

The middle ear.

The eardrum.

(anatomy) A hearing organ in frogs, toads and some insects.

(anatomy) In certain birds, the labyrinth at the bottom of the windpipe.

(engineering) A drum-shaped wheel with spirally curved partitions by which water is raised to the axis when the wheel revolves with the lower part of the circumference submerged; used for raising water, as for irrigation.

Source: Wiktionary


Tym"pa*num, n.; pl. E. Tympanums, L. Tympana. Etym: [L., a kettledrum, a drum or wheel in machines, the triangular area in a pediment, the panel of a door, Gr. Type, and cf. Timbrel.]

1. (Anat.) (a) The ear drum, or middle ear. Sometimes applied incorrectly to the tympanic membrane. See Ear. (b) A chamber in the anterior part of the syrinx of birds.

2. (Zoöl.)

Definition: One of the naked, inflatable air sacs on the neck of the prairie chicken and other species of grouse.

3. (Arch.) (a) The recessed face of a pediment within the frame made by the upper and lower cornices, being usually a triangular space or table. (b) The space within an arch, and above a lintel or a subordinate arch, spanning the opening below the arch.

4. (Mech.)

Definition: A drum-shaped wheel with spirally curved partitions by which water is raised to the axis when the wheel revolves with the lower part of the circumference submerged, -- used for raising water, as for irrigation.

Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition



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Word of the Day

18 April 2025

GROIN

(noun) the crease at the junction of the inner part of the thigh with the trunk together with the adjacent region and often including the external genitals


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