vocal cords

plural noun

: either of two pairs of folds of mucous membranes that project into the cavity of the larynx and have free edges extending dorsoventrally toward the middle line

Examples of vocal cords in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

No doubt there are many ick factors inherent in the Oscar-winning duet made famous by Dean Martin and Marilyn Maxwell and covered by seemingly everyone with vocal cords. —Melissa Ruggieri, USA Today, 4 Dec. 2025

Treatment included a major surgery that posed considerable risk to his vocal cords. —Shania Russell, Entertainment Weekly, 4 Nov. 2025

Vocal folds within the larynx rely on musculature, mucosal pliability and proper airflow from the lungs to create sound — and the specific balance of tension and elasticity of the vocal cords plays a key role in vocal quality. —Scott Lafee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 28 Oct. 2025

So, my vocal cords, they’re supposed to look parallel. —Melinda Newman, Billboard, 22 Oct. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1757, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for vocal cords

• harpsichords
• overlords
• storyboards
• accords
• affords
• awards
• billboards
• blackboards
• clapboards
• dashboards
• discords
• floorboards

Kids Definition

vocal cords

plural noun

: either of two pairs of elastic folds of tissue in the larynx of which the lower pair produce the voice when air exhaled from the lungs causes them to vibrate