The spelling of "otosteals" is derived from the word "otosteal", which refers to the bony tissue of the ear. The word is pronounced as /ˈɒtəʊstiːlz/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable, "ot", is pronounced as "awt" followed by the vowel sound "oh", which is pronounced with the tongue low and central in the mouth. The second syllable, "o", is pronounced like the vowel sound in "beau". The suffix "-steals" is pronounced as "steels". Together, the word is not only spelled uniquely but also sounds distinct due to its pronunciation.
A term applied to the bones of the ears of man, and likewise of the lower animals.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.