larynx

American  

[lar-ingks] / ˈlær ɪŋks /

noun

plural

larynges, larynxes

1. Anatomy. a muscular and cartilaginous structure lined with mucous membrane at the upper part of the trachea in humans, in which the vocal cords are located.

2. Zoology.

   1. a similar vocal organ in other mammals.

   2. a corresponding structure in certain lower animals.

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larynx British  

/ ˈlærɪŋks /

noun

1. a cartilaginous and muscular hollow organ forming part of the air passage to the lungs: in higher vertebrates it contains the vocal cords

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larynx Scientific  

/ lăr′ĭngks /

plural

larynges

1. The upper part of the trachea in most vertebrate animals, containing the vocal cords. The walls of the larynx are made of cartilage. Sound is produced by air passing through the larynx on the way to the lungs, causing the walls of the larynx to vibrate. The pitch of the sound that is produced can be altered by the pull of muscles, which changes the tension of the vocal cords.

2. Also called voice box

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larynx Cultural  

1. The specialized upper portion of the trachea that contains the vocal cords; the voice box.

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Etymology

Origin of larynx

1570–80; < New Latin < Greek lárynx

Compare meaning

How does larynx compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• pharynx vs. larynx
• larynx vs. trachea

Explanation

The larynx, or "voice box," is the cartilaginous structure at the top of the trachea, or "windpipe," which is in your throat. The larynx contains the vocal cords. The Greek word laryngos means "the upper windpipe." The larynx does all sorts of important things besides housing the vocal cords (which are actually folds, not cords). The larynx is involved in breathing, and it also helps keep food from entering your windpipe when you swallow. All mammals have one — the wolf that howls, the lion that roars, and Tarzan, who makes that — whatever that sound is he makes.

Example Sentences

His parents were told he might never walk and might struggle with eating after needing surgery for a floppy larynx.

From BBC • Mar. 5, 2026

At the same time, they create a high pitched sound by whistling inside the larynx.

From Science Daily • Feb. 25, 2026

As well as mesothelioma, asbestos can cause other forms of lung cancer, larynx and ovarian cancer.

From BBC • Apr. 24, 2025

Consultations with doctors eventually brought a brutal diagnosis: spasmodic dysphonia, a neurological disorder in which the muscles in the larynx tighten or lapse into spasms, strangulating speech while making singing a significant challenge.

From New York Times • Jun. 20, 2024

Bruising, hoarseness, the sore larynx, this strange little cough — not to be worried about.

From "Mockingjay" by Suzanne Collins

Related Words

• esophagus