larynx

noun lar·ynx \ˈler-iŋ(k)s, ˈla-riŋ(k)s\

medical : the part of your throat that contains the vocal cords

plural la·ryn·ges \lə-ˈrin-(ˌ)jēz\ or lar·ynx·es

Full Definition of LARYNX

: the modified upper part of the trachea of air-breathing vertebrates that in humans, most other mammals, and some amphibians and reptiles contains the vocal cords

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Origin of LARYNX

New Latin laryng-, larynx, from Greek

First Known Use: 1578

Other Anatomy Terms

bilateral symmetry, carotid, cartilage, dorsal, entrails, prehensile, renal, solar plexus, supine, thoracic, ventral

LARYNX Defined for Kids

larynx

noun lar·ynx \ˈler-iŋks\

plural la·ryn·ges \lə-ˈrin-ˌjēz\ or lar·ynx·es

Definition of LARYNX for Kids

: the upper part of the trachea that contains the vocal cords

Medical Dictionary

larynx

noun lar·ynx \ˈlar-iŋ(k)s\

plural la·ryn·ges \lə-ˈrin-(ˌ)jēz\ or lar·ynx·es

Medical Definition of LARYNX

: the modified upper part of the respiratory passage of air-breathing vertebrates that is bounded above by the glottis, is continuous below with the trachea, has a complex cartilaginous or bony skeleton capable of limited motion through the action of associated muscles, and in humans, most other mammals, and a few lower forms has a set of elastic vocal cords that play a major role in sound production and speech—called also voice box