What is the more common name for the thyroid cartilage?

The thyroid cartilage is commonly referred to as the "Adam's apple." This term arises from the prominence of the cartilage in the neck, which is more noticeable in males due to hormonal changes during puberty that cause the cartilage to grow larger. The Adam’s apple forms the anterior wall of the larynx, which is integral to voice production as it houses the vocal cords.

In contrast, the other choices have different anatomical or functional meanings. The voice box is a colloquial term for the larynx, which includes the thyroid cartilage but refers to the entire structure. The larynx is the proper anatomical term for the organ that houses the vocal cords and plays crucial roles in breathing, sound production, and protecting the trachea against food aspiration. The windpipe, medically known as the trachea, is a separate structure that extends below the larynx and is responsible for conducting air to and from the lungs. Thus, the term "Adam's apple" specifically denotes the thyroid cartilage itself rather than the broader anatomical features encompassed by the other terms.