Shaped like a ladle or pitcher; specifically referring to the pair of small cartilages in the larynx that control vocal cord movement.
From Greek arytaina meaning 'ladle' or 'pitcher' + -oid meaning 'shaped like.' Named for their distinctive ladle-like appearance under magnification.
The arytenoid cartilages are like tiny scoops that sit on top of your windpipe and literally rock back and forth to open and close your vocal cords—singers train for years to control these structures.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.