Definition

Noun (Anatomy): * The primary sound-producing structure of the larynx: One of the two paired, lower folds of mucous membrane and muscle within the larynx (voice box). They are the main components that vibrate to create the voice when air from the lungs is forced between them.

Usage

The term "true vocal fold" is used in anatomical, medical, and vocal pedagogy contexts to specify the primary vocal cords, distinguishing them from the vestibular folds (false vocal cords) located above them. * Hoarseness can result from swelling or nodules on the true vocal folds. * During phonation, the true vocal folds approximate and vibrate. * The surgeon examined the patient's true vocal fold for signs of strain.

Advanced Usage

• The true vocal folds are also referred to scientifically as the or . The space between them is the glottis.
• In vocal technique, singers learn to control the tension and thickness of the true vocal folds to produce different pitches and tones.

Variants and Related Words

• Vocal cord (noun): The common term for the true vocal fold.
• Vocal ligament (noun): The specific band of elastic tissue within the true vocal fold.
• False vocal fold (noun) / Vestibular fold (noun): The upper pair of folds in the larynx that do not typically vibrate for normal speech.
• Glottis (noun): The opening between the true vocal folds.

Synonyms

• Vocal cord
• Vocal ligament
• Inferior vocal cord (less common)

Related Phrases

• Vocal fold vibration: The oscillating movement of the true vocal folds that produces sound.
• Vocal fold abduction: The movement of the true vocal folds apart, as during breathing.
• Vocal fold adduction: The movement of the true vocal folds together, as for speaking or singing.

Noun

1. either of the two lower vocal folds that come together to form the glottis; produce a vocal tone when they are approximated and air from the lungs passes between them