timpano
/ˈtim.pa.no/
The English word 'eardrum' is timpano in Italian.
timpano refers to the membrane that separates the outer and middle ears.
Meaning: membrane separating outer and middle ears (noun)
How do you pronounce it?
The word has three syllables and the stress is on the first syllable: /ˈtim.pa.no/.
Did you know?
- The word timpano is also used in Italian cooking to describe a dish baked in a deep pot or a crust that resembles a drum.
- In old Italian architectural terms, a timpano can refer to a triangular pediment above a door or window.
- The Italian word timpano is also the name for a large, cylindrical percussion instrument used in orchestras.
Examples in context
- Il medico ha diagnosticato una perforazione della membrana timpanica.The doctor diagnosed a perforated eardrum.
- Il medico ha controllato il suo timpano.The doctor checked her eardrum.
- Ho sentito un dolore forte al timpano.I felt a sharp pain in my eardrum.
Example conversation
Martina is explaining her ear pain to Francesco.
- FrancescoMartina, come va il tuo orecchio?Martina, how is your ear?
- MartinaSento un fastidio proprio sul timpano.I feel an irritation right on my eardrum.
- FrancescoDovresti andare subito dal dottore.You should go to the doctor immediately.
- MartinaHai ragione, ci vado domani.You are right, I will go tomorrow.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “eardrum” translations and entries timpano, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
