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
Going into a performance stiff and cold—not vocally or physically warm—could damage the vocal cords or put the performer at risk for injury.
—
Jordan Smith, SELF, 7 Feb. 2025
Speech Changes Changes in speech may be the result of breast cancer that has metastasized to the vocal cords, the mouth, or the brain.
—Lana Barhum, Verywell Health, 3 Feb. 2025
This is the most common type, in which the vocal cords stiffen and slam shut, causing speech to sound tight and strained.
—Emily Kay Votruba, EverydayHealth.com, 31 Jan. 2025
Abductor spasmodic dysphonia, which is less common, causes the vocal cords to suddenly open.
—Angela Haupt, TIME, 29 Jan. 2025
See all Example Sentences for vocal cords 
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.
Jordan Smith, SELF, 7 Feb. 2025
Speech Changes Changes in speech may be the result of breast cancer that has metastasized to the vocal cords, the mouth, or the brain.
—Lana Barhum, Verywell Health, 3 Feb. 2025
This is the most common type, in which the vocal cords stiffen and slam shut, causing speech to sound tight and strained.
—Emily Kay Votruba, EverydayHealth.com, 31 Jan. 2025
Abductor spasmodic dysphonia, which is less common, causes the vocal cords to suddenly open.
—Angela Haupt, TIME, 29 Jan. 2025
See all Example Sentences for vocal cords
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 12 Feb. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share