Definition

Noun: - Vocal fold: Either of two pairs of folds of mucous membrane projecting into the larynx. The lower pair are the true vocal cords, which vibrate to produce sound. The upper pair are the false vocal cords.

Usage

• The term is a precise anatomical term used in medical, biological, and voice science contexts to describe the structures within the larynx responsible for phonation.
• It is typically used in technical writing, academic papers, and professional discussions.

Examples

• Noun:
  • Injury to the plica vocalis can result in hoarseness or loss of voice.
  • The surgeon examined the patient's plica vocalis using a laryngoscope.

Advanced Usage

• "True plica vocalis": Specifically refers to the lower pair of folds, the vocal cords proper.
  • The true plica vocalis are the primary sound-producing structures.
• "False plica vocalis": Refers to the upper pair of folds (vestibular folds), which are not primarily involved in sound production.
  • The false plica vocalis lie superior to the true vocal cords.

Variants and Related Words

• Vocal cord (n): The common, less technical synonym for the true plica vocalis.
  • She strained her vocal cords during the concert.
• Vocal fold (n): A modern and precise synonym, emphasizing the fold-like structure.
  • The vocal fold vibration was analyzed.
• Glottis (n): The space between the two true vocal folds.
  • The air passes through the glottis.

Synonyms

• Vocal band: An older, less common term.
• Vocal ligament: Refers more specifically to the elastic tissue within the vocal fold.

Related Phrases

• Vocal fold paralysis: A medical condition where the vocal folds cannot move.
  • The patient was diagnosed with unilateral vocal fold paralysis.
• Vocal fold nodules: Benign growths on the vocal folds, often from overuse.
  • The singer was treated for vocal fold nodules.

Notes

• The term plica vocalis is Latin in origin ( meaning "fold", meaning "of the voice"). It is the formal anatomical term.
• In everyday language, "vocal cords" or "vocal folds" are far more common. Plica vocalis is reserved for formal or scientific contexts.

Noun

1. either of two pairs of folds of mucous membrane projecting into the larynx