Glottis Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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glottis
[ˈɡlɒtɪs ]
Definition
anatomy structure
The glottis is the part of the larynx that contains the vocal cords and the opening between them. It plays a crucial role in phonation, as the vocal cords vibrate to produce sound when air passes through them. The glottis can be opened or closed to regulate airflow and sound production.
Synonyms
laryngeal opening, voice box opening.
Examples of usage
- The singer trained to control her glottis for better vocal performance.
- During a medical examination, the doctor checked the patient's glottis for any signs of inflammation.
- The glottis is essential for producing voiced sounds in speech.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Anatomy
- The glottis is located in the larynx (voice box) and consists of the vocal cords and the space between them.
- When air passes through the glottis, it causes the vocal cords to vibrate, producing sound.
- The size of the glottis can change depending on whether you're breathing, speaking, or singing, impacting your voice.
Linguistics
- Glottis is crucial in phonetics; sounds generated here are called glottal sounds, found in many languages.
- Some languages have a glottal stop, which is a sound made by stopping airflow in the glottis, like in the middle of 'uh-oh'.
- Understanding the role of the glottis can help in teaching pronunciation and accent reduction.
Medical Insights
- Doctors may examine the glottis to check for conditions affecting the voice or breathing.
- Laryngitis, an inflammation of the larynx, can affect the glottis and lead to hoarseness or loss of voice.
- Surgeries involving the vocal cords can impact glottis function and may require speech therapy for recovery.
Pop Culture
- In the world of music, singers are often taught to use their glottis correctly to control their pitch and volume.
- Famous singers, like opera performers, rely on optimal glottal function for powerful vocal projection.
- Voice coaches frequently explain glottal techniques when discussing different singing styles, like belting or falsetto.
Origin of 'glottis'
The word 'glottis' comes from the Greek word 'glōtta,' which means 'tongue' or 'language.' This etymology reflects the glottis's role in speech and sound production. Over time, the term was adopted into Latin as 'glottis,' retaining its original meaning related to the vocal apparatus. The glottis is a vital component of the human vocal system, allowing for the production of various sounds necessary for communication. The study of the glottis is important in fields such as linguistics, phonetics, and medical science, particularly in relation to voice disorders and respiratory functions.