larynx

play

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

Definition of larynx

plural

larynges

play \lə-ˈrin-(ˌ)jēz\ or

larynxes

: 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

See larynx defined for English-language learners

See larynx defined for kids

Recent Examples of larynx from the Web

Other cancers linked to tobacco include that of the mouth, larynx, throat, esophagus, bladder, kidney, liver, stomach, pancreas and cervix, as well as a form of leukemia.

— paul sisson, sandiegouniontribune.com, "Half of all cancer deaths are avoidable. Follow these key prevention steps.", 2 June 2017
According to one, their oral and nasal pathways could resonate in tandem with the folds of their larynx, where sounds are produced, so that their vocal system behaves like a musical wind instrument.

— tanya lewis, WIRED, "Helium-Breathing Gibbons Sing Like Human Sopranos", 23 Aug. 2012

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'larynx'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Origin and Etymology of larynx

New Latin laryng-, larynx, from Greek

NEW!

First Known Use: 1578

See Words from the same year

Other Anatomy Terms

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

LARYNX Defined for English Language Learners

larynx

play

noun

Definition of larynx for English Language Learners

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

LARYNX Defined for Kids

larynx

play

noun lar·ynx \ˈler-iŋks\

Definition of larynx for Students

plural

larynges

\lə-ˈrin-ˌjēz\ or

larynxes

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

Medical Dictionary

larynx

play

noun lar·ynx \ˈlar-iŋ(k)s\

Medical Definition of larynx

plural

larynges

\lə-ˈrin-(ˌ)jēz\play or

larynxes

: 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