larynx Anat.
(ˈlærɪŋks)
Pl. larynges (ləˈrɪndʒiːz). Also 6–7 larinx, 6 laringa.
[a. Gr. λάρυγξ, mod.L. larynx.]
A cavity in the throat with cartilaginous walls, containing the vocal cords, by means of which sounds are produced. In man and most animals this cavity forms the upper part of the trachea or wind-pipe. In birds there are two larynges, one at each end of the trachea; the lower of these, called syrinx, is the true organ of sound.
| 1578 Banister Hist. Man i. 16 b, This Larinx is the Organ, by which we receiue and put forth breath; as also of makyng and fourmyng voyce. 1597 A. M. tr. Guillemeau's Fr. Chirurg. 19/2 Muscles situated aboute the Laringa. 1633 P. Fletcher Purple Isl. iv. 45 note, The Larynx, or coveryng of the winde-pipe is a grisly substance. 1732 Arbuthnot Rules of Diet 387 The Ulcer may break suddenly into the Larynx with the danger of Suffocation. 1802 Paley Nat. Theol. x. §5 The larynx..besides its other uses, is also a musical instrument. 1881 Mivart Cat 223 At its front end the trachea expands into a membranous and cartilaginous box-like structure called the larynx. 1900 Westm. Gaz. 20 June 1/2 Splendid lungs and larynges which had never known a London fog. |
| attrib. 1861 Braithwaite's Retrosp. Med. XLII. 88 The observer..introduces the larynx-speculum. |