The word "earless" is spelled with two syllables: /ˈɪə.ləs/. The first syllable is pronounced like the word "air" without the "r" sound, and the second syllable sounds like "less" with a short "i" sound. This word describes something or someone that does not have ears, and is commonly used to refer to certain breeds of dogs or cats. It is important to use the correct spelling of "earless" in order to avoid confusion or misunderstandings in communication.
The term "earless" refers to the absence or lack of ears in an organism. It is derived from the combination of the prefix "ear," which refers to the anatomical organ responsible for hearing in many living beings, and the suffix "-less," indicating the absence or lack of a certain characteristic.
In general, when an organism is described as "earless," it means that it does not possess the typical outer or external structures associated with hearing, such as ears or earlike appendages. This term can be used to describe both living organisms and inanimate objects, depending on the context.
In the natural world, there are various species that can be categorized as "earless." For example, some types of snakes and lizards do not possess externally visible ears, as their hearing mechanisms are often internal. Similarly, certain insects, like beetles, do not have evident ears due to their unique hearing systems, which may be located on other parts of their bodies.
In a broader sense, "earless" can also be used metaphorically to describe objects or devices that lack the capability or function to perceive or transmit sound, despite not being living beings. This can include technologies or devices that do not have built-in speakers or microphones, rendering them "earless" in terms of sound transmission capabilities.
Without ears.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "earless" is formed by combining the prefix "ear-" and the suffix "-less". The prefix "ear-" is derived from the Old English word "ēare", meaning "ear". The suffix "-less" comes from the Old English word "-lēas", meaning "devoid of" or "without". As a result, "earless" simply means "without ears".