The tympanic membrane, commonly known as the eardrum, is a delicate membrane that separates the outer ear from the middle ear. Synonyms for the tympanic membrane include the myringa, auditory membrane, and the tympanum. The eardrum is one of the most important structures in the ear when it comes to hearing. It vibrates in response to sound waves, causing the tiny bones in the middle ear to move and activate the auditory nerves in the inner ear. Though the tympanic membrane is more commonly referred to as the eardrum, it is important to know its other synonyms in the field of audiology and medicine.