larynx

Everyday

1. (science) The voice box: the part at the top of the windpipe in the throat, which holds the vocal cords that vibrate to make sounds. tree →
2. It also helps stop food going into the lungs when you swallow. tree →

In the lessons

In science lessons about the body, breathing and sound, the larynx is where voice comes from; when boys' voices «break» at puberty, the larynx grows and sticks out as the Adam's apple. Laryngitis is an illness that makes you lose your voice. Phrases: voice box, laryngitis.

Examples

• The larynx is also called the voice box. tree →
• Your vocal cords are inside your larynx. tree →
• When you speak, air from your lungs makes the vocal cords in your larynx vibrate. tree →
• The Adam's apple is the front of the larynx. tree →
• She had laryngitis and could only whisper. tree →
• Put your fingers on your throat and feel your larynx buzz when you hum. tree →
• The larynx sits on top of the windpipe. tree →

Note

Countable: plural larynges (formal) or larynxes. Pronounced LA-rinks. Common spelling trap: it is «larynx», not «larnyx». Related: laryngitis (lar-in-JY-tis).