Glottis

Definition

The glottis is the part of the larynx consisting of the vocal cords and the slit-like opening between them. It plays a crucial role in producing sounds, breathing, and protecting the airway during swallowing.

Related terms

Vocal cords: Vibrating bands of muscle tissue in the larynx that produce sound when air passes through them.

Larynx:

A tube-shaped organ located in the neck that contains the vocal cords; it is involved in breathing, producing sound, and protecting the trachea against food aspiration.

Trachea:

The windpipe; a large membranous tube reinforced by rings of cartilage, extending from the larynx to the bronchial tubes and conveying air to and from the lungs