Pronunciation: [vˈə͡ʊkə͡l fˈə͡ʊldz] (IPA) 
The correct spelling for the anatomical structure commonly referred to as vocal cords is actually "vocal folds", with an "L" rather than a "D". The word is spelled this way in order to better represent the actual function of the structure, which is to vibrate and create sound through the movement of the folds. In International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) transcription, the word is represented as /ˈvoʊkəl foʊldz/.
Vocal folds, also known as vocal cords, are muscular folds located within the larynx or voice box. They are essential structures involved in the production of sound by human beings and many other animals.
The vocal folds consist of two fibrous bands made up of muscle tissue covered by a mucous membrane. When the individual breathes, the vocal folds remain open, allowing air to pass through the larynx without interruption. However, during voice production, the vocal folds come together, also known as adduction, creating a narrow passage for the air to flow through.
The process of producing sound starts when air from the lungs is exhaled, causing the vocal folds to vibrate. The rate of these vibrations, known as the fundamental frequency, determines the pitch of the resulting sound. The muscles surrounding the vocal folds can control the level of tension and the degree of vibration, thus allowing one to manipulate the pitch, volume, and quality of the produced voice.
The sound produced by the vibrating vocal folds then resonates throughout the upper respiratory tract, including the throat, mouth, and nasal cavities, shaping the sound into recognizable speech or singing. This mechanism, coordinated by the intricate movements of the vocal folds, is responsible for human communication through spoken language as well as the expression of emotions through vocalization.
The word vocal folds originates from the Latin term vocalis meaning of the voice or vocal, and plica meaning fold or wrinkle. In English, plica vocalis was initially used to refer to the specific folds of tissue in the larynx responsible for vocalization. Over time, the term evolved to vocal folds.
