GLOTTIS Meaning and
Definition
-
The glottis is a crucial anatomical structure found in the human respiratory system. It refers to the opening between the vocal cords in the larynx, which serves as the gateway to the trachea or windpipe. It acts as a valve, controlling the passage of air in and out of the lungs during breathing. The glottis plays a vital role in speech production as well.
Comprising the vocal folds or vocal cords, the glottis is located at the upper end of the trachea, just below the base of the tongue. It consists of two primary components: the true vocal cords, which are responsible for generating sound through vibration, and the false vocal cords, which do not directly contribute to sound production. The size, shape, and position of the glottis greatly influence the pitch and quality of our voice, allowing for a diverse range of sounds and vocalizations.
During inhalation, the glottis expands and the vocal cords separate, enabling air to flow freely into the lungs. Conversely, during exhalation or phonation, the glottis narrows and the vocal cords tighten, modifying the air passage and creating vibrations that produce sound waves. This complex coordination of muscles and tissues within the glottis is crucial for phonation, enabling humans to articulate various speech sounds and communicate effectively.
-
The vocal apparatus of the larynx, consisting of the labia vocalia, or folds of mucous membrane investing the vocal ligament and vocal muscle on each side, the free edges of which are the vocal cords, and of a median fissure, the rima glottidis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
-
The narrow opening at the upper part of the windpipe.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for GLOTTIS
Etymology of GLOTTIS
The word "glottis" has its origin in Greek. It comes from the Greek word "glōttis" (γλῶττις), which means "tongue" or "language". It is derived from the Greek word "glōssa" (γλῶσσα), which refers to the tongue. In modern terminology, the "glottis" refers to the space between the vocal cords in the larynx.
Similar spelling words for GLOTTIS
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
