Definition: Acroteria (also spelled acrotheria, or as it is called in some regions) are small, soft structures that line the outer wall of the pharynx. They protect the vocal cords from injury when they become irritated from swallowing too much food or liquid. A croto is a flat layer of muscle at the base of the tongue. It helps to support and hold the tongue together. The acroteria protect the salivary glands in the lower jaw and help to prevent the infection that can occur with inflammation around these glands. They also provide an area for food to enter the mouth without being chewed or broken down. The term 'acroterium' is a Latin word meaning "injury" or "bruise". It refers to the small, soft structures that line the outer wall of the pharynx and help protect the vocal cords from injury when they become irritated.

acroterium