The word "arytenoid" is a tricky term to spell, owing to its unique combination of sounds. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is spelled as /ˌærɪˈtɛnɔɪd/. The first syllable is pronounced as "air-i," and the second syllable is pronounced as "ten-oid." The letter "y" is used to represent the vowel sound "i". The "en" sound is spelled with the letters "te" which can cause confusion. However, the "oid" ending refers to the shape of the structure in the larynx, making the spelling of this word memorable.
The term "arytenoid" refers to an anatomical structure found in the throat and specifically pertains to a pair of small cartilages located within the larynx. The arytenoids are critical components involved in the functioning of the vocal cords and play a vital role in the production of sound during speech and singing.
These cartilages are situated above the cricoid cartilage and are shaped like a pyramid, with a base that attach to the cricoid cartilage, an apex pointing upwards, and anterior and posterior surfaces. The arytenoids can move and rotate, allowing for the adjustment of vocal cord tension and phonation.
Because of their role in sound production, the arytenoids have various muscles and ligaments attached to them, which control their movements. The muscular control exerted over the arytenoids is essential for regulating pitch, volume, quality, and other aspects of vocalization.
In addition to their involvement in vocalization, the arytenoids also contribute to the regulation of airflow during breathing. During respiration, they play a part in adjusting the opening of the glottis, the space between the vocal cords. This adjustment helps in the control of airflow and prevents the entrance of foreign substances into the airway.
Understanding the anatomy and functioning of the arytenoids is crucial for medical professionals, speech therapists, and vocal performers, as any abnormalities or dysfunction of these structures can significantly impact voice production and respiratory functions.
Noting a cartilage (cartilago arytaenoidea) and a muscle (musculus arytaenoideus) of the larynx.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "arytenoid" originates from Greek. It is composed of two parts: "arytenes" (άρυτήνες) meaning "pitchers" or "ladles" and "eidos" (είδος) meaning "form" or "shape". The term "arytenoid" was chosen because the arytenoid cartilages in the larynx resemble ladles or pitchers in shape. The arytenoid cartilages are a pair of small, pyramid-shaped cartilages located in the larynx, involved in voice production and controlling the opening and closing of the vocal cords.