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tensor tympani

(Science: anatomy, muscle) origin, the cartilaginous part of the auditory (eustachian) tube and the walls of its hemi-canal just above the bony portion of the auditory tube; insertion, handle of malleus; action, draws the handle of the malleus medialward tensing the tympanic membrane to protect it from excessive vibration by loud sounds. Nerve supply, branches of trigeminal through the otic ganglion.

Synonym: musculus tensor tympani, tensor muscle of tympanic membrane, toynbee's muscle.