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Glite Dictionary
arytenoid cartilage

arytenoid cartilage

8.1
A small cartilage at the back of the voice box where a vocal cord attaches
  • noun
  • /ˌɛrɪˈtiːnɔɪd ˈkɑːrtɪlɪdʒ/
  • Specialized
translation icon : cartílago aritenoides
  • The arytenoid cartilage plays a crucial role in the mechanism of voice production as it anchors the vocal folds.

Examples

  • Examination of the larynx revealed edema of the right arytenoid cartilage; the right wall of the larynx still contained a bulge, and the left vocal fold was still fixed.

    Academic text (2001)

  • The right arytenoid cartilage was heavily involved and fixed.

    Academic text (1996)

  • The surgeon carefully examined the arytenoid cartilage for any signs of damage during the procedure.

  • Inflammation of the arytenoid cartilage can lead to difficulties in speaking and breathing.

Synonyms

arytaenoid
vsarytenoid cartilage
  • Specialized
9.9

A small cartilage at the back of the voice box to which the vocal cords attach

has identical meaning but is a spelling variant of the same term
arytenoid
vsarytenoid cartilage
  • Specialized
9.9

One of two small pieces of firm tissue at the back of the voice box that hold the vocal cords

focuses on structure without emphasising voice function

Surface Forms

arytenoid cartilage singular
arytenoid cartilages plural

Morphology

arytenoid + cartilage

The phrase denotes the cartilage that is 'arytenoid' and is compositionally built from 'arytenoid' (the specific anatomical element) + 'cartilage' (connective tissue). This is a straightforward noun–noun anatomical naming pattern common across languages, so a learner who knows both constituent meanings would readily infer the MWE meaning.

Etymology

Arytenoid cartilage may come from a Greek word for 'ladle' because each small arytenoid piece of cartilage looks like a tiny spoon or cup. That's why the name fits these little parts at the back of the 'voice box' where the vocal cords attach.