What does laryngoscopic mean?
Laryngoscopic is an adjective meaning “relating to the examination of the larynx,” the part of the throat that contains the vocal cords and protects the airway. The term is used mainly in medicine, especially in descriptions of a laryngoscopic examination or evaluation, in which a laryngoscope provides a direct visual view of the laryngeal structures. It is closely related to the noun laryngoscopy, which names the procedure itself, and to the instrument called a laryngoscope. Although “laryngoscopy” is the more commonly encountered term in general medical writing, “laryngoscopic” is useful when the nature of an examination, image set, or assessment needs to be specified. The word is technical and is unlikely to appear in ordinary conversation except in a healthcare context.
adjectiveRelating to the examination of the larynx with a laryngoscope, especially in medicine.
- Relating to the visual examination of the larynx using a laryngoscope.
"The patient underwent a laryngoscopic examination to assess the vocal cords."
"A laryngoscopic assessment revealed mild inflammation of the vocal cords."
"The specialist reviewed the laryngoscopic images before recommending treatment."
Laryngoscopy gives clinicians a direct view of the larynx, including the vocal cords that make speech possible.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does laryngoscopic come from?
The word combines laryng-, a form related to Greek larynx, meaning “the upper part of the throat,” with -scopic, derived from Greek skopos, meaning “watcher” or “observer.” The related medical instrument, laryngoscope, and the procedure laryngoscopy were developed during the nineteenth century as means of inspecting the larynx. The resulting adjective laryngoscopic follows the established English pattern of forming an adjective from a procedure or instrument name.
Related word forms
How laryngoscopic is actually used
This is a specialist medical term, used mainly in clinical contexts. In British usage, /ˌlærɪŋɡəˈskɒpɪk/ is standard; North American usage commonly uses /ˌlærɪŋɡəˈskɑːpɪk/.
Easily confused with laryngoscopic
Laryngoscopic is the adjective describing an examination of the larynx, whereas laryngoscopy names the examination or the procedure itself.