Auriphone

/ˈɔːrɪfoʊn/ noun

Definition

An early hearing aid or acoustic device designed to amplify sound for the ears, or a device for transmitting sound.

Etymology

From Latin 'auris' (ear) + Greek 'phone' (sound), literally meaning 'ear-sound,' describing a device that brings sound to the ears.

Kelly Says

Early auriphonies were mechanical marvels made of tubes and horns—people would hold enormous ear trumpets to their ears at concerts and public events, and it was considered quite fashionable despite looking silly!

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