- The definition of larynx is the structure at the upper part of the human trachea that contains the vocal cords or a similar structure in other creatures.
An example of the larynx is the combination of muscle and cartilage which is used for speech.
larynx definition by Webster's New World
larynx definition by American Heritage Dictionary
noun pl. la·ryn·ges or lar·ynx·es
The part of the respiratory tract between the pharynx and the trachea, having walls of cartilage and muscle and containing the vocal cords enveloped in folds of mucous membrane.
Origin: New Latin, from Greek larunx.
larynx - Cultural Definition
The specialized upper portion of the trachea that contains the vocal cords; the voice box.
larynx - Medical Definition
noun pl. lar·ynx·es or la·ryn·ges
The part of the respiratory tract between the pharynx and the trachea, having walls of cartilage and muscle and containing the vocal cords enveloped in folds of mucous membrane.
larynx - Science Definition
Plural larynges larynges or larynxes
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. Also called voice box.
Related Forms:
- laryngeal laryngeal adjective
