Helicotrema

/ˌhɛlɪkɒˈtriːmə/ noun

Definition

A small opening at the apex of the cochlea in the inner ear where the two fluid-filled chambers of the cochlea connect.

Etymology

From Greek 'helix' (spiral, because the cochlea is spiral-shaped) and 'trema' (hole or opening), literally 'spiral hole.'

Kelly Says

The helicotrema is like a tiny tunnel inside your coiled inner ear that allows sound-wave vibrations to travel from one chamber to the other—without it, you wouldn't be able to hear low-frequency sounds!

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