What are vocal cords?

The vocal cords is called the vocal cords (vocal folds). Gray's Anatomy (1918) describes it as two folds of mucous membrane stretched across the larynx.

What it is

  • Two folds of mucous membrane stretched across the larynx.
  • Vibrate as air passes between them to produce sound.
  • Their tension and separation are adjusted by small laryngeal muscles.

Where it is

  • Inside the larynx.
  • Attached in front to the thyroid cartilage and behind to the arytenoid cartilages.
  • The space between them is called the rima glottidis.

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Last verified: 2026-07-18

  • Best Anatomy Answers is an educational reference about human anatomy. It is not medical advice — for any health concern, talk to a licensed medical professional.

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