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vocal cords definition

vocal cords

either of two pairs of membranous cords or folds in the larynx, consisting of a thicker upper pair (false vocal cords) and a lower pair (true vocal cords): voice is produced when air from the lungs causes the lower cords to vibrate: pitch is controlled by varying the tension on the cords, and volume, by regulating the air passing through the larynx

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2005 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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