n, pl  mal*lei   :  the outermost of the chain of three ossicles in the middle ear of a mammal consisting of a head, neck, short process, long process, and handle with the short process and handle being fastened to the tympanic membrane and the head articulating with the head of the incus - called also hammer  .
 
 
 
Similar sounding terms:  mal·aise  me·lis·sa 
 
Published under license with Merriam-Webster, Incorporated.  © 1997-2024.