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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Cash had polyps on her vocal cords removed that left her unable to sing for years. Pam Windsor, Forbes, 13 Dec. 2024 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, 10 Dec. 2024 Iris is still trapped in the car with Richard and slowly regains control of her vocal cords. Monica Mercuri, Forbes, 28 Oct. 2024 Some sounds are more difficult to make if the vocal cords are very dry. Avery Hurt, Discover Magazine, 23 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for vocal cords 

Word History

First Known Use

1757, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of vocal cords was in 1757

Dictionary Entries Near vocal cords

Cite this Entry

“Vocal cords.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vocal%20cords. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on vocal cords

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!