n (mechanics) A flexible membrane separating two chambers and fixed around its periphery that distends into one or other chamber depending on the as the difference in the pressure in the chambers varies.
n (acoustics) In a speaker, the thin, semi-rigid membrane which vibrates to produce sound.
n (optics|photography) A thin opaque structure with a central aperture, used to limit the passage of light into a camera or similar device.
n (context|construction) A floor slab, metal wall panel, roof panel or the like, havig a sufficiently large in-plane shear stiffness and sufficient strength to transmit horizontal forces to resisting systems.
v (optics|photography) To reduce lens aperture using an optical diaphragm.