n pl :  small crystals of calcium carbonate in the saccule and utricle of the ear that under the influence of acceleration in a straight line cause stimulation of the hair cells by their movement relative to the gelatinous supporting substrate containing the embedded cilia of the hair cells - called also statoconia  .
 
 
 
Published under license with Merriam-Webster, Incorporated.  © 1997-2024.