What is the commonly known name for the thyroid cartilage, which is more prominent in men?

The commonly known name for the thyroid cartilage is the Adam's apple. This structure is more prominent in men due to the influence of testosterone during puberty, which causes the thyroid cartilage to grow larger and more prominent compared to that in women. The thyroid cartilage forms a protective shield around the larynx (voice box) and is the largest cartilage in the laryngeal framework. Its prominence is typically assessed visually and palpably in males, making it a recognizable feature.

In contrast, the other terms refer to different anatomical structures. The voice box is a broad term that encompasses the entire laryngeal structure, which includes the thyroid cartilage as well as other components. The epiglottis is a flap-like structure that covers the trachea during swallowing to prevent food from entering the airway. The cricoid cartilage is located below the thyroid cartilage and is part of the laryngeal anatomy but does not have the prominent projection associated with the Adam's apple.