Tympanum

Origin

From Latin tympanum, from Ancient Greek τύμπανον, from τύπτω (tuptō, "I strike, I hit").

Full definition of tympanum

Noun

1. (architecture) A triangular space between the sides of a pediment.
2. (architecture) The space within an arch, and above a lintel or a subordinate arch, spanning the opening below the arch.
3. The middle ear.
4. The eardrum.
5. A hearing organ in frogs, toads and some insects.
6. (engineering) A drum-shaped wheel with spirally curved partitions by which water is raised to the axis when the wheel revolves with the lower part of the circumference submerged; used for raising water, as for irrigation.