The musculus cricoarytaenoideus lateralis is a muscle responsible for controlling the movement of the vocal cords. The word "musculus" is spelled "mʌskjʊləs" in IPA. "Cricoarytaenoideus" is pronounced "krɪkəʊɑːrtaɪˈnɔɪdɪəs," while "lateralis" is spelled "lətɛrəlɪs." The complexity of this word demonstrates the importance of understanding IPA phonetic transcription. With its use, even the most complex words can be spelled out and pronounced correctly, greatly aiding communication in fields such as medicine and science.
Musculus cricoarytaenoideus lateralis, also known as the lateral cricoarytenoid muscle, is a anatomical structure located in the larynx of humans and other mammals. It is one of the intrinsic muscles of the larynx and plays a crucial role in vocalization and phonation.
The term "musculus cricoarytaenoideus lateralis" can be broken down to understand its meaning. "Musculus" refers to "muscle" in Latin, indicating that this structure is a muscular tissue. "Cricoarytaenoideus" is a combination of the words "cricoid" and "arytenoid," which are two of the cartilages found in the larynx. The term "lateralis" is derived from the Latin word "latus," meaning "side," suggesting that this muscle is situated on the lateral side of the larynx.
The main function of the musculus cricoarytaenoideus lateralis is to control the movement of the vocal folds, also known as the vocal cords, during speech and breathing. When it contracts, it acts to adduct the vocal folds, bringing them together and closing the glottis. This is essential for generating sound and vocalization. It works in opposition to the other intrinsic muscles of the larynx, such as the posterior cricoarytenoid muscle, which helps to abduct the vocal folds and open the glottis.
In summary, the musculus cricoarytaenoideus lateralis is a muscle found in the larynx that assists in vocalization by closing the glottis and bringing the vocal folds together.
Origin, upper margin of arch of cricoid cartilage; insertion, muscular process of arytenoid; nerve supply, recurrent laryngeal; action, narrows rima glottidis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.