Arrhenoid

/ˈærɛnɔɪd/ adjective

Definition

Resembling or having characteristics of a male; in anatomy, relating to cartilage in the larynx shaped like a man's head.

Etymology

From Greek arrhen 'male' plus -oid 'resembling.' The arytenoid cartilages in your voice box were named for this shape—Greek anatomists thought they looked like little male heads.

Kelly Says

Your arytenoid cartilages are crucial for speaking and singing—every time you produce a sound, these little pyramid-shaped structures (named for their supposed male appearance) are vibrating in your throat.

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