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tympanum |
Also found in: Dictionary/thesaurus, Medical, Wikipedia, Hutchinson | 0.06 sec. |
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tympanum (tĭm`pənəm). In architecture, the triangular space of a pediment pediment, in architecture, the triangular gable end on a building of classic type or a similar form used decoratively. It consists of the tympanum , or triangular wall surface, enclosed below by the horizontal cornice and above by the raking cornice, which follows ..... Click the link for more information. , or low-pitched gable, above a portico, door, or window. Its boundaries are generally cornice moldings. The term also designates the solid wall space above an arched window or door. Sculptured tympana of this type, within round or pointed arches, occurred above the doors of the recessed portals in the medieval churches. They were universal in both Romanesque and Gothic periods, and were especially fine in France. The usual subjects are biblical and symbolic, often arranged in horizontal tiers with numerous figures to illustrate a complete legend. Over the central doorway of Notre-Dame de Paris is a depiction of the Last Judgment. In Italy tympana were sometimes decorated with mosaic or fresco. tympanum 1. a. the cavity of the middle ear b. another name for tympanic membrane 2. any diaphragm resembling that in the middle ear in function 3. Architect a. the recessed space bounded by the cornices of a pediment, esp one that is triangular in shape and ornamented b. the recessed space bounded by an arch and the lintel of a doorway or window below it 4. Music a tympan or drum 5. a scoop wheel for raising water tympanum [′tim·pə·nəm] (anatomy) (invertebrate zoology) A thin membrane covering an organ of hearing in insects. How to thank TFD for its existence? Tell a friend about us, add a link to this page, add the site to iGoogle, or visit webmaster's page for free fun content. |
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I observed a few the handles of which were mysteriously curved, as if intended to be introduced into the orifice of the ear, with a view perhaps of beating the tattoo upon the tympanum. If I hear the conductor calling 'all aboard' as I enter the depot, my heart first stops, then palpitates, and my legs respond to the air-waves falling on my tympanum by quickening their movements. |
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