What does laryngitis mean?
Laryngitis is inflammation of the larynx, the part of the throat that contains the vocal cords. It commonly causes hoarseness, throat discomfort, coughing, and sometimes difficulty swallowing. The condition may result from a viral infection, irritation from shouting or vocal overuse, exposure to smoke or other irritants, or less commonly other medical causes. Laryngitis is particularly relevant to singers, teachers, and others who rely heavily on their voices. Most cases in adults are viral and resolve with rest, voice care, hydration, and time, but persistent or severe symptoms may require medical assessment. The word comes from the Greek larynx, meaning the voice box, combined with the medical suffix -itis, meaning inflammation. Although often used informally for any hoarse throat, laryngitis has a precise medical meaning: inflammation specifically affecting the larynx rather than the adjacent pharynx.
nounInflammation of the larynx, or voice box, usually causing hoarseness, a sore throat, and sometimes difficulty swallowing or breathing.
- Inflammation of the larynx, usually associated with hoarseness and throat pain.
"Her persistent hoarseness was eventually diagnosed as laryngitis."
"The singer cancelled her performance after developing laryngitis."
"Most cases of laryngitis in adults are viral and improve without specific treatment."
A swollen voice box can turn a whisper into the roughest-sounding voice in the room.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does laryngitis come from?
The word is formed from Greek larynx, meaning the larynx or voice box, together with the Greek-derived medical suffix -itis, meaning inflammation. The combination entered English through medical and scientific usage in the 19th century. Related English words include laryngeal, laryngology, and laryngoscope, all built on the same Greek root.
Related word forms
How laryngitis is actually used
The term is primarily medical. In everyday speech, it may refer broadly to any condition that produces a noticeably hoarse or strained voice, although laryngitis more precisely denotes inflammation of the larynx.
Easily confused with laryngitis
Laryngitis affects the larynx and primarily causes hoarseness, whereas pharyngitis affects the pharynx and typically produces a sore throat.