Definition
The narrow passage in the outer ear that runs from the opening of the ear to the eardrum, carrying sound waves inward and channeling air pressure changes onto the eardrum.
Plain English
The tube-shaped opening you can see when you look into someone's ear. It leads from the outside of the ear to the eardrum.
Context Anchor
Seen in FAA discussions of ear anatomy, pressure changes, and why the middle ear must equalize during climbs and descents.
Derivation
From the Latin 'auditorius' meaning 'relating to hearing,' from 'audire' meaning 'to hear.' 'Canal' comes from the Latin 'canalis,' meaning a channel or pipe. So 'auditory canal' literally means 'hearing channel' — a useful reminder that this is the path sound travels into the head.
Why Pilots Care
Pressure changes during climb and descent act on the eardrum through the auditory canal. Knowing where it sits helps a pilot understand why ear discomfort, hearing changes, and pressure problems happen during altitude changes.
Intuition Check
Do not confuse the auditory canal with the Eustachian tube. The auditory canal leads from the outside of the ear to the eardrum; the Eustachian tube connects the middle ear to the back of the throat to help pressure equalize.
Example Sentence 1
Sound waves travel down the auditory canal and strike the eardrum, which then vibrates.
Example Sentence 2
Sound enters the auditory canal before reaching the structures deeper in the ear.