rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryglottisOpening between vocal cords
noun

glottis

GLAH-tis/ˈɡlɑːtɪs/

The opening between the vocal cords in the larynx.

Air passes through the glottis on its way to the lungs.

Accurate top-down medical view of vocal folds with dark glottic opening between.
Etymology
glottisGreekmouthpiece of a pipe

The Greek word for a pipe’s mouthpiece supplied an anatomical name for the opening at the top of the windpipe. Today it names the gap between the vocal cords.

In context

TED-Ed1:10
This is followed almost immediately by the sudden closure of the vocal chords and the opening between them, which is called the glottis.
Why do we hiccup? - John Cameron

More examples

  • The vocal cords move apart, widening the glottis.
  • The doctor examines the glottis with a small camera.
  • A glottal stop occurs when the glottis closes briefly.

Forms

glottis · glottises · glottides

glottal adjective — Relating to the glottis or its function.