The cricoid cartilage is an important anatomical structure located at the bottom of the larynx. Also commonly referred to as the "ring-shaped cartilage," this structure acts as a protective barrier for the vocal cords and helps regulate airflow during breathing. There are several other synonyms for the cricoid cartilage, including the cricoid ring, cricoid plate, cricoid lamina, thyroid cartilage, and cricoid thyroid. Understanding the various terms associated with this critical component of the respiratory system is essential for healthcare professionals who work in fields such as pulmonology, otolaryngology, and emergency medicine.