Definition

A medical procedure in which part or all of the voice box is surgically removed.

Example

After the laryngectomy, the patient had to learn how to speak again.

Conversation

Did you hear about Sam's recent laryngectomy?

Yeah, I read about it; that must have been tough for him.

I can't imagine going through such a major surgery like a laryngectomy.

It's definitely a big deal, but he's staying positive about it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Laryngectomy → It is formed from "larynx" (from Greek "larynx", meaning the organ of voice) and "-ectomy" (from Greek "ektomē", meaning excision or removal). The word "laryngectomy" refers to the surgical removal of the larynx, the organ responsible for voice production.

Memory Tip

Think of the 'larynx' as the organ that produces voice, and '-ectomy' means removal. So, laryngectomy is the removal of the voice organ.

Visually Confused Words