Musculus cricothyreoideus is a complex term derived from Latin and Greek roots. The correct pronunciation of this word in English is /ˈmʌskjʊləs ˌkraɪkoʊˌθaɪriːˈɔɪdiəs/, pronounced as MUS-kyuh-luhs KRY-koh-THAHY-ree-ohy-dee-uhs. The word can be split into smaller components: "musculus" means muscle, "cricothyreoideus" refers to the cricoid and thyroid cartilages of the larynx. The phonetic transcription shows that the word uses Latin and Greek inflections and vowel sounds, making it difficult to spell and pronounce.
Musculus cricothyreoideus, commonly known as the cricothyroid muscle, is a small paired strap muscle located in the anterior neck region. The name "cricothyreoideus" is derived from Latin, with "crico" referring to the cricoid cartilage and "thyreoideus" relating to the thyroid cartilage, indicating its anatomical attachments.
The cricothyroid muscle originates from the anterior surface of the cricoid cartilage, specifically from the arch and the cricothyroid joint, and extends superiorly. It inserts into the lower border and anterior surface of the thyroid cartilage, near the thyroid notch. The cricothyroid muscle works in conjunction with the thyroid cartilage to form the thyroid notch.
The main function of the musculus cricothyreoideus is to control the tension of the vocal folds, which is crucial for the production of different pitches and tones during speech and singing. When the cricothyroid muscle contracts, it tilts and rocks the cricoid cartilage, effectively stretching the vocal folds horizontally and increasing their tensile strength. This action results in a higher-pitched voice. On the other hand, when the muscle relaxes, the vocal folds return to their relaxed position, inducing a lower-pitched voice.
Overall, the musculus cricothyreoideus plays a vital role in regulating vocalization and pitch range through its control over vocal fold tension.
Origin, anterior surface of arch of cricoid; insertion, parsrecta anterior of oblique part, passes upward to ala of thyroid, pars obliqua posterior or horizontal part, passes more outward to inferior cornu of thyroid; nerve supply, superior laryngeal; action, makes vocal cords tense.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "musculus cricothyreoideus" is derived from Latin. Here is the breakdown of its etymology:
1. "Musculus": This is the Latin word for "muscle".
2. "Cricothyreoideus": This term is formed by combining two Latin words:
- "Crico": It refers to the "cricoid cartilage", which is a ring-shaped cartilage found in the throat, located just above the trachea.
- "Thyreoides": This term refers to the "thyroid cartilage", which is the largest cartilage of the larynx and forms the Adam's apple in the throat.
Therefore, "musculus cricothyreoideus" translates to "muscle of the cricoid and thyroid cartilages". This muscle is commonly known as the "cricothyroid muscle" in English.