Definition

1. Noun:
   • The largest cartilage of the larynx: The "thyroid cartilage" is the biggest and most prominent piece of cartilage in the voice box (larynx). It forms the front and sides of the larynx and protects the vocal cords. In males, it is particularly prominent and forms the "Adam's apple."

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The surgeon carefully examined the patient's thyroid cartilage before the procedure.
  • During puberty, the growth of the thyroid cartilage causes the voice to deepen.

Advanced Usage

• Medical/Surgical Context: The term is used precisely in anatomy, otolaryngology (ENT), and surgery.
  • The incision was made just above the thyroid cartilage.

Variants and Related Words

• Laryngeal prominence: This is the anatomical term for the external projection of the thyroid cartilage, commonly known as the Adam's apple.
• Larynx: The organ (voice box) of which the thyroid cartilage is a part.
• Cricoid cartilage: The ring-shaped cartilage located below the thyroid cartilage.

Synonyms

• Adam's apple (common, non-technical term for its external projection in the neck, especially in males).

Related Phrases

• Thyroid cartilage fracture: A medical condition involving a break in this cartilage, often due to trauma.
• Thyroid cartilage notch: The V-shaped notch at the top of the cartilage.

Noun

1. the largest cartilage of the larynx