Skip to main content
true glottis

true glottis

8.8
The space between the two vocal cords in the voice box
  • noun
  • /tru ˈɡlɑːtɪs/
  • Specialized
translation icon : glotis verdadera
  • Swelling of the true glottis can lead to difficulties in breathing and speaking.

Examples

  • A tumor located at the true glottis may cause changes in a person's voice.

  • The surgeon carefully examined the true glottis before proceeding with the operation.

  • The true glottis is crucial for sound production.

  • During singing, the true glottis must remain open.

  • A tumor located at the true glottis may cause changes in a person's voice.

  • Swelling of the true glottis can lead to difficulties in breathing and speaking.

  • The surgeon carefully examined the true glottis before proceeding with the operation.

Synonyms

glottis
vstrue glottis
  • Specialized
1 9.0

The opening between the vocal cords in the throat that makes sounds

is limited to the space only not the cords themselves
glottis vera
vstrue glottis
  • Specialized
9.9

The small space between the two vocal cords inside the voice box

is the same but uses more general wording rather than the anatomical label
rima glottidis
vstrue glottis
  • Specialized
9.9

The gap between the two vocal cords in the throat that air passes through

is the simple spatial definition without mentioning air flow or function
rima vocalis
vstrue glottis
  • Specialized
9.9

The space between the two vocal cords in the voice box that air passes through when you speak or breathe

is the simple spatial definition without mentioning air flow or function

Surface Forms

true glottis singular

Morphology

true + glottis

The phrase is compositional: 'glottis' denotes the opening between the vocal cords and 'true' distinguishes the genuine/true vocal folds (as opposed to false folds), so 'true glottis' refers to the glottal space formed by the true vocal folds. Although technical, this meaning follows directly from the constituent meanings and common anatomical naming patterns, so a learner who knows both words can infer it.

Etymology

True glottis is a name that comes from the image of two small curtains in the voice box. The narrow gap between the curtains, called the vocal folds, lets air pass and make sound, so true glottis means 'the space between the two vocal folds'.