How to Pronounce Vocal Folds
Definition, meaning, and phonetic spelling
Vocal Folds Pronunciation
VOH-kul foldz
Stressed syllable in ALL CAPS · hyphens separate syllables
Syllable Breakdown
VOH
stress here
kul foldz
2 syllables
What is Vocal Folds?
Two pairs of mucous membrane folds stretched across the larynx; the true vocal folds vibrate to produce sound when air passes between them, while the false vocal folds above them help with breath-holding and swallowing.
Questions About Vocal Folds
How do you say 'vocal folds'?
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Say it like this: VOH-kul foldz. The first part rhymes with 'go,' and 'folds' sounds like the word for creases in paper. Put the stress on the first syllable: VOH-kul, not vo-KUL.
What does 'vocal' mean in 'vocal folds'?
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Vocal comes from the Latin word 'vox,' which means 'voice' or 'sound.' So 'vocal folds' literally means the folds that help you make your voice and speak.
Why are they called 'folds' instead of 'cords'?
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They're called folds because they're flexible sheets of tissue that fold and stretch, not actual cords or strings. Some people do say 'vocal cords,' but 'vocal folds' is the more accurate modern term.
How many syllables are in 'vocal folds'?
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There are three syllables: VO-kul-foldz. The word 'vocal' has two syllables (VO-kul), and 'folds' is one syllable.
What's the difference between 'true' vocal folds and 'false' vocal folds?
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The true vocal folds are the lower pair that vibrate to create sound when you speak or sing. The false vocal folds are the upper pair that sit above them and mainly help you hold your breath or swallow. Both pairs are part of your larynx.
Is there a shorter way to write or say 'vocal folds'?
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You might see the abbreviation 'VF' written in medical notes, but in conversation, most people just say the full term 'vocal folds.' Some older sources use 'vocal cords,' which means the same thing.
What other words share the same root as 'vocal'?
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Words like 'voice,' 'vocalize,' and 'vocalist' all come from the same Latin root 'vox' meaning sound or voice. Even 'vocalize' (say out loud) shares that connection to vocal folds.
Can you use 'vocal folds' in a simple sentence?
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Sure! Here's an example: 'When you sing, your vocal folds vibrate very quickly to make different pitches.' This shows that vocal folds are the parts of your body that create sound when you speak or sing.