The anatomical structures that allow us to produce voice have undergone significant changes throughout evolution.

One of the significant changes in human evolution is the descent of the larynx, where the vocal folds (also known as vocal cords) are located, which likely occurred alongside the transition to an upright posture. This lower laryngeal position facilitated the development of the pharynx. Together with various cavities, such as the mouth and nasal passages, these structures form a series of resonating chambers that modulate the sound produced by the vocal folds.

Another evolutionary change that may have influenced the development of speech in humans is the increased innervation of the thorax, enhancing neural control. This change likely allowed for better respiratory control, essential for producing long sentences with only brief breaths taken at specific moments that do not interrupt the flow of speech.

The anatomical modifications of our vocal apparatus may have also been shaped by spoken languages, as not all languages produce the same sounds (e.g., the sound associated with the letter “R” differs in French, English, and Spanish). Conversely, the anatomy of our vocal apparatus influences our voice and subtly shapes the way sounds are pronounced.

In an interview on Radio-Canada’s “Moteur de recherche,” speech-language pathologist Agathe Tupula Kabola discusses the fascinating relationship between spoken languages and the anatomy of our vocal apparatus.

To listen to this audio interview in French: https://ici.radio-canada.ca/ohdio/premiere/emissions/moteur-de-recherche/segments/chronique/394268/forme-bouche-langues