Dictionary

stapes

noun sta·pes \ˈstā-(ˌ)pēz\
plural stapes or sta·pe·des \ˈstā-pə-ˌdēz\

Definition of STAPES

:  the innermost ossicle of the middle ear of mammals —called also stirrup — see ear illustration
ADVERTISEMENT

Origin of STAPES

New Latin staped-, stapes, from Medieval Latin, stirrup, alteration of Late Latin stapia
First Known Use: 1615
Medical Dictionary

stapes

noun sta·pes \ˈstā-(ˌ)pēz\
plural stapes or sta·pe·des \stə-ˈpē-ˌdēz\

Medical Definition of STAPES

:  the innermost of the chain of three ossicles in the middle ear of a mammal having the form of a stirrup, a base occupying the oval window of the tympanum, and a head connected with the incus—called also stirrup

Illustration of STAPES

Browse

Next Word in the Dictionary: staphPrevious Word in the Dictionary: stapeliaAll Words Near: stapes
ADVERTISEMENT
How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.
Test your vocab with our fun, fast game
Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears