Corniculum laryngis is a phrase that refers to a part of the larynx, which is an essential organ for speech production. It is located at the apex of the arytenoid cartilages and shaped like a small horn. The correct pronunciation of corniculum laryngis is [kɔːˈnɪkjʊləm ləˈrɪndʒɪs] according to the International Phonetic Alphabet. This spelling indicates that the first syllable is "cor," as in "core," followed by "niculum," pronounced with the long "i" sound, while "laryngis" is pronounced with the stress on the second syllable.
Corniculum laryngis, also known as the corniculate cartilage, is a small, paired cartilaginous structure found within the larynx or voice box in humans. The larynx is a critical organ in the respiratory system responsible for voice production and protection of the lower respiratory tract.
The corniculum laryngis is situated at the apex or top of the arytenoid cartilages, another important pair of cartilages in the larynx. It appears horn-like in shape, with a small, conical structure attached to the posterior part of each arytenoid cartilage. The corniculae laryngis contribute to the functional movement of the arytenoids, aiding in the control of vocal fold tension and vocal sound production.
These cartilages are composed of hyaline cartilage tissue, which provides structural support to the larynx. The corniculum laryngis, along with other cartilages in the larynx, help maintain the open passageway for airflow during breathing, prevent food or liquid from entering the airways, and play a crucial role in voice modulation.
In summary, the corniculum laryngis is a pair of small, conical cartilages located on the apex of the arytenoid cartilages in the larynx. They aid in voice production, contribute to vocal fold tension, and provide structural support to the larynx, enabling its essential functions within the respiratory system.
Cartilago corniculata.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word corniculum laryngis is a Latin term, which can be broken down into two parts: corniculum and laryngis.
The term corniculum is derived from the Latin word cornu, meaning horn. In this context, it refers to a small horn or a projection.
The word laryngis is the genitive form of larynx, which is derived from the Greek word larunx. The origin of larunx is uncertain, but it is believed to have come from the Indo-European root ker, meaning to turn or bend. This could be a reference to the shape of the larynx, which bends in the throat.
Therefore, corniculum laryngis can be translated as a small horn of the larynx.