How to Pronounce Vocal Cords
Definition, meaning, and phonetic spelling
Vocal Cords Pronunciation
VOH-kul kordz
Stressed syllable in ALL CAPS · hyphens separate syllables
Syllable Breakdown
VOH
stress here
kul kordz
2 syllables
What is Vocal Cords?
Two folds of mucous membrane stretched across the larynx that vibrate as air passes between them to produce sound; also called vocal folds.
Questions About Vocal Cords
How do you pronounce 'vocal cords'?
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Say it like this: VOH-kul kordz. The first word rhymes with 'local,' and the second word sounds like 'cords' as in rope. The stress falls on the first syllable: VOH-kul, not vo-KUL.
How do you break 'vocal cords' into syllables?
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'Vocal' has two syllables: VO-cal. 'Cords' is just one syllable. So when you say the whole term, it's VO-cal cords (three syllables total).
What is a common mispronunciation of 'vocal cords'?
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Many people stress the wrong syllable and say vo-KUL cords instead of VOH-kul cords. Remember: the emphasis goes on the first syllable, like you're saying 'LOCAL' without the 'L'.
What does the word 'vocal' mean?
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'Vocal' comes from the Latin word 'vox,' which means 'voice.' So 'vocal cords' literally means the cords that help make your voice. You'll see 'vocal' in other words too, like 'vocalist' (a singer) or 'vocalize' (to make sounds with your voice).
What is the plain English way to describe vocal cords?
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Vocal cords are the part of your voice box that vibrates to make sound when air passes through them. You could also call them 'voice cords' or 'voice folds'—all three names mean the same thing.
Are 'vocal cords' and 'vocal folds' the same thing?
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Yes, they are! 'Vocal cords' and 'vocal folds' are two different names for the exact same structure in your larynx. Modern doctors often use 'vocal folds,' but 'vocal cords' is still very common and correct.
What related words share the same root as 'vocal'?
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Several words come from the same Latin root 'vox' (voice): 'vocalize' (to produce voice), 'vocalist' (a singer), 'voice,' and 'vocation' (a calling or profession). All of these have to do with voice or calling in some way.
How would you use 'vocal cords' in a sentence?
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Here's an example: 'When you sing or speak, your vocal cords vibrate inside your larynx to create sound.' This sentence shows how the term is used in everyday discussion about how your voice works.