larynx

n. (pl. larynges) the muscular and cartilaginous structure at the top of the trachea (windpipe) and below the tongue that contains the vocal cords. Movements of the cartilages in the walls of the larynx, controlled by the laryngeal muscles, alter the tension of the vocal cords and change the frequency of the sound (thus, the pitch) emitted by the cords when they vibrate. —laryngeal adj.

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Psychology term of the day

December 26th 2024

glossopharyngeal nerve

the ninth cranial nerve, which supplies the pharynx, soft palate, and posterior third of the tongue, including the taste buds of that portion. It contains both motor and sensory fibers and is involved in swallowing and conveying taste information.