larynx

noun

lar·​ynx ˈler-iŋ(k)s 

ˈla-riŋ(k)s

plural larynges 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

Examples of larynx in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

While performing in Elmont, NY on Sept. 9 of that year, Tyler fractured his larynx, necessitating the postponement of shows on their Peace Out tour. —Tyler Jenke, Billboard, 18 Feb. 2025

About six months after Aerosmith announced their retirement from touring in the wake of Tyler's onstage larynx fracture in September 2023, the 76-year-old vocalist took the stage for a performance at his Jam for Janie Grammy Awards Viewing Party in Los Angeles on Feb. 2. —Jack Irvin, People.com, 4 Feb. 2025

Infection in other body parts, such as the brain, spin or larynx, can lead to intense pain in that area. —Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 30 Jan. 2025

The typical treatment for SD is Botox injections into the larynx muscles. —Angela Haupt, TIME, 29 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

New Latin laryng-, larynx, from Greek

First Known Use

1578, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for larynx

• pharynx

Kids Definition

larynx

noun

lar·​ynx ˈlar-iŋ(k)s 

plural larynges lə-ˈrin-(ˌ)jēz  or larynxes

: the upper part of the trachea that in human beings and most mammals contains the vocal cords

called also voice box

Medical Definition

larynx

noun

lar·​ynx ˈlar-iŋ(k)s 

plural larynges lə-ˈrin-(ˌ)jēz  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