noun
conch
the bowl-shaped hollow of the outer ear
The doctor examines the conch for redness and swelling.
Etymology
The Greek word names a shell. Anatomy applies its curved, hollow shape to the bowl of the outer ear leading toward the ear canal.
More examples
- Her earbud rests in the conch of her outer ear.
- Water collects in the conch after he swims.
- The diagram labels the conch just outside the ear canal.
Forms
conch · conchs
Similar words
- concha
- The standard anatomical term for this same outer-ear hollow.