larynx

lar·ynx

noun \ˈlar-iŋ(k)s\

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

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

Illustration of LARYNX