Abstract: The present invention relates to an improved applicator designed for the application of anesthetic fluids such as phenol as well as other fluid medicants to the tympanic membrane. The applicator comprises an articulating member with a finger gripping zone adjacent the proximal end thereof, and an angularly disposed fluid retaining applicator pad secured to the distal end thereof. The distal end is provided with a cylindrical fluid retaining applicator pad attached to the cross-sectional surface of the tip, with the outer diameter of the pad being generally equivalent to that of the articulating member. The fluid retaining applicator pad permits painless application of an anesthetizing fluids such as phenol to the tympanic membrane, with excellent positioning control being made possible by the finger gripping portion of the articulating member.