online vocabulary.com

Stapes - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

The stapes is the smallest bone in the human body, located in the middle ear. It helps transmit sound vibrations from the eardrum to the inner ear, enabling hearing.

stapes

/ˈsteɪpiz/ /ˈsteɪpiːz/

Definition:

The stapes is a small stirrup-shaped bone in the middle ear, transmitting sound vibrations.

Synonyms:

stirrup bone, auditory ossicle

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

(No direct antonyms; anatomical term)

Common Collocations:

middle ear, sound transmission, auditory system

Derivatives:

stapedial, stapedectomy

Usage Tips:

Use "stapes" when discussing ear anatomy or hearing mechanisms; it’s singular ("stapes," not "stape").

Common Phrases:

(No common phrases or idioms; anatomical term)

Etymology:

From Latin "stapes" meaning "stirrup," due to its shape resembling a riding stirrup.

Examples:

  • 1. The stapes is the smallest bone in the human body.
  • 2. Damage to the stapes can cause hearing loss.
  • 3. The stapes transmits vibrations to the inner ear.
  • 4. Surgeons sometimes replace the stapes during otosclerosis treatment.

MORE VOCABULARY LISTS