What is another name for the voice box?

Another name for the voice box is the larynx.

The larynx is an organ in the neck positioned between the pharynx and the trachea. It houses the vocal folds, often called vocal cords, which vibrate as air from the lungs passes through them to produce sound. Muscles adjust the folds’ tension and position, helping control pitch and volume.

The larynx does more than make speech possible. It protects the airway during swallowing, helping prevent food and liquid from entering the lungs. The epiglottis and other laryngeal structures contribute to this protective response, while the vocal folds close during a cough to help expel irritants.

The laryngeal skeleton includes nine cartilages, including the thyroid cartilage that forms the prominence commonly called the Adam’s apple. Inflammation of the larynx is called laryngitis and can cause hoarseness or temporary loss of voice. The name larynx comes from Ancient Greek and was discussed in anatomical writings associated with Galen.