A meatus is an opening or passage in the body, often referring to a natural channel. In anatomy, it typically describes the external openings of certain organs, such as the ear or urethra. These openings allow for the passage of fluids, air, or sound waves, playing essential roles in bodily functions. In the context of the ear, the external auditory meatus is the canal that leads to the eardrum, facilitating sound transmission. The urethral meatus is the opening through which urine exits the body. Understanding meatuses is important for studying human anatomy and physiology.