vestibular fold

a pair of mucous membrane folds in the larynx that help protect the airway and assist in sound modulation

The vestibular fold, also known as the false vocal cord, is a pair of mucous membrane folds located above the true vocal cords within the larynx. Unlike the true vocal cords, which are involved in sound production, the vestibular folds primarily serve a protective role. They help to close off the airway during swallowing and prevent the entry of food or liquids into the respiratory tract. Additionally, the vestibular folds play a minor role in modifying airflow during speech and contribute to the resonance of vocal sounds.