What is the term for the eardrum?

The eardrum is accurately referred to as the tympanic membrane. This thin, cone-shaped membrane serves as a barrier between the outer ear and the middle ear. It plays a crucial role in hearing by vibrating in response to sound waves that enter the ear canal. These vibrations are then transmitted to the small bones of the middle ear, known as the ossicles, which further convey the sound waves to the inner ear.

The tympanic membrane is essential for the process of hearing, as it not only helps in sound transmission but also protects the inner structures of the ear from foreign particles and bacteria. Its ability to convert sound waves into mechanical vibrations is vital for the auditory system to function properly, making it a key component in the overall process of hearing.