Definition

Noun: - Either of the upper two vocal cords that are not involved in vocalization: The "superior vocal cord" refers to one of the two upper folds of tissue in the larynx. These cords, also known as the vestibular or false vocal cords, sit above the true vocal cords. Their primary function is not to produce sound for speech but to protect the airway and assist in functions like breath-holding and straining.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • During the laryngoscopy, the doctor noted that the superior vocal cord was slightly inflamed.
  • The superior vocal cord closes to help protect the trachea from food particles.

Advanced Usage

• Anatomical Context: The term is used almost exclusively in medical, anatomical, and voice science contexts to distinguish these structures from the (inferior) true vocal cords.
  • The study focused on the protective reflex action of the superior vocal cord.

Variants and Related Words

• Vestibular fold (n): The anatomical synonym for "superior vocal cord."
• False vocal cord (n): A common alternative name.
• Vocal folds (n): A general term that can refer to both the true (inferior) and false (superior) vocal cords.

Synonyms

• False vocal fold
• Vestibular fold

Related Phrases

• (To) cover the glottis: A phrase describing one of the protective functions of the superior vocal cords.
  • The superior vocal cords help cover the glottis during swallowing.

Noun

1. either of the upper two vocal cords that are not involved in vocalization