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larynx
(larŽinks)
the muscular and cartilaginous structure, lined with mucous membrane, situated at the top of the trachea and below the root of the tongue and the hyoid bone; it contains the vocal cords and is the source of the sound heard in speech. The larynx is part of the respiratory system; air passes through it traveling from the pharynx to the trachea on its way to the lungs and again returning to the exterior.
artificial larynx
an electromechanical device that enables a person after laryngectomy to produce speech. When the device is placed against the region of the laryngectomy a buzzing sound is made that can be converted
into simulated speech by movements of the lips, tongue, and glottis. Called also electrolarynx.

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