Pronunciation GB: ˌkraɪkəʊˌærɪˈtiːnɔɪd, GA: ˌkraɪkoʊəˈrɪt̬ənɔɪd

One of a number of muscles connecting the cricoid cartilage and the arytenoid cartilages. The contraction of the posterior crico-arytenoid muscles aids in the abduction of the vocal folds. The contraction of the lateral crico-arytenoid muscles contributes to forceful adduction of the vocal folds.

A cut-away view of the larynx with the front to the right.