Tragus

The tragus is a small, cartilaginous flap of tissue located on the anterior (front) side of the ear, partially covering and protecting the opening of the ear canal. It's a distinctive feature found in humans and many other mammals. The shape and size of the tragus can vary between individuals, and it plays a crucial role in sound localization, helping to funnel and direct sounds into the ear canal, thereby contributing to our ability to perceive sounds accurately. Its structural integrity can be vital to proper hearing function. The tragus's proximity to the face makes it vulnerable to piercings and injury.

Tragus meaning with examples

• The audiologist carefully examined the patient's tragus, noting its size and shape to assess ear canal health. A small, shiny earring was attached to her tragus, giving her face some unique flair. During the exam, the doctor gently pressed on the tragus to check for tenderness, which could indicate an ear infection. The tragus's position allows it to help reflect sounds into the ear, improving the brain's ability to analyze directionality.
• The sharp wind caused a slight irritation to the tragus, emphasizing the sensitivity of the ear's cartilage. During the hearing test, the technician specifically looked at the condition of the tragus. The surgeon made a minor incision near the tragus to access a small blood vessel. The stylist carefully avoided the tragus during the hair cut.
• A sudden blow to the ear resulted in a painful bruise on the tragus, requiring some ice and pain relief. The jeweler was very careful when he installed her tragus piercing, making sure it was placed correctly. The tragus is vital for hearing because it is a small portion of the complex ear structure. The tragus is frequently assessed during ear examinations.
• In ancient medical texts, the tragus was described as a key element in the process of hearing. The piercing of the tragus is often considered to be less painful than some other ear piercings. The shape and size of the tragus are very different between humans and various species of animals. The hearing loss in this case made the doctor suspect problems with the tragus.