Ear

Definition

Ear refers to the organ of hearing and balance in humans and animals, typically composed of three parts: the outer ear, middle ear, and inner ear. It functions to detect sound and maintain equilibrium. As a noun, "ear" can also refer to the ability to perceive sound or music, or the part of a grain plant that produces seeds.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪr/
• Respelling: eer

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪə/
• Respelling: e-uh

Etymology

The word "ear" originates from the Old English "ēare," which comes from the Proto-Germanic "ausō" and Proto-Indo-European "h₂ous-," meaning "ear" or "to perceive." This term has remained largely unchanged in meaning, referring to the organ of hearing across languages.

Derivatives

• Earful (noun)
• Earshot (noun)
• Earplug (noun)
• Earphone (noun)
• Earlike (adjective)

Synonyms

• Organ of hearing
• Auricle
• Lug (informal)

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The noun "ear" is commonly used to refer to the organ responsible for hearing and balance. For example, "She whispered into his ear." In figurative contexts, it can refer to the ability to appreciate or understand sound, as in "He has a good ear for music."

Related Terms

• Hearing: The sense by which sound is perceived.
• Equilibrium: The state of physical balance, maintained by the inner ear.
• Auditory: Related to the sense of hearing.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The organ of hearing and balance in humans and animals: Refers to the anatomical structure responsible for detecting sound and maintaining equilibrium.
  • Example: "The doctor examined her ear for signs of infection."
• The ability to perceive sound or appreciate music: Used figuratively to describe someone’s auditory sensitivity.
  • Example: "She has an ear for rhythm and melody."
• The part of a cereal plant that contains seeds: Refers to the grain-bearing structure of plants like wheat and corn.
  • Example: "The farmer harvested the ears of corn."