What does laryngological mean?
Laryngological is an adjective meaning relating to the larynx, the anatomical structure commonly called the voice box, or to the medical specialty concerned with the larynx and its diseases. It occurs in clinical and academic writing, as in laryngological examination, laryngological surgery, and laryngological disorders. The word is more specific than general terms such as throat-related and is used when the larynx or the specialized medical knowledge associated with it is being discussed. In medicine, laryngology covers the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the voice box, including disorders of the vocal cords and functions such as speech, breathing, and swallowing. The related noun laryngology names the field itself, while laryngologist denotes a specialist who practices in it.
adjectiveRelating to the larynx, the voice box, or the branch of medicine concerned with the larynx and its disorders.
- Relating to the larynx or to the medical study and treatment of laryngeal conditions.
"The patient was referred for a laryngological examination."
"The specialist discussed the laryngological findings with the patient."
"The hospital has a leading department for laryngological disorders."
The larynx is the voice box, and laryngological language belongs to the branch of medicine that studies this remarkable instrument of speech.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does laryngological come from?
The adjective is formed from laryngology by adding the suffix -ical, meaning “relating to.” Laryngology in turn combines laryngo-, a form derived from Greek larinx or larynx, meaning “larynx,” with the Greek-derived suffix -logy, referring to the study of a subject. Greek larungos also underlies related English words such as laryngitis and laryngoscope, as well as the anatomical term larynx.
Related word forms
How laryngological is actually used
This is a formal medical term, used mainly in clinical, academic, and specialist contexts.
Easily confused with laryngological
Laryngology is the medical field concerned with the larynx, whereas laryngological is an adjective describing something related to that field or to the larynx.