The Adam’s apple, also known as the thyroid cartilage, is located in front of the voice box and increases in size during puberty. The Adam’s apple serves little utility, but it is a frequent physical characteristic in men. There are various myths regarding Adam’s apples, such as where the name originates from; learn more fascinating facts about Adam’s apples here.
The name does not originate from a biblical story in Genesis.According to resources.healthgrades.com, while it appears that the name “Adam’s apple” comes from the myth of Adam and Eve eating the forbidden fruit in the Garden of Eden (and the fruit becoming caught in Adam’s throat as a reminder of his transgression), this is not the case. Since the early 1600s, European writers have used Latin variants of the term Adam’s apple to refer to a variety of fruits, including the pomegranate.
At the same time, for unclear reasons, medieval Arabic medical writers chose the term “pomegranate” to describe the protrusion of cartilage in the throat. The Latin names for “apple” and “pomegranate” are quite similar, therefore when translated into English, the Adam’s apple was named after a pomegranate. The Adam’s apple is a sensitive place on a man’s body, so avoid touching it to increase sensitivity.

This explanation emphasizes the sensitivity of the Adam’s apple, a prominent feature of the neck structure, particularly in men. The thyroid cartilage that surrounds the larynx, known as the Adam’s apple, can be highly painful to the touch due to its proximity to the voice cords and other essential organs. Touching this area might cause discomfort or a tickling feeling, and some people may find it intrusive.
The term “make them more sensitive” most likely alludes to how unwanted or frequent contact can increase awareness of the area, making the experience more intense and uncomfortable. It acts as a gentle reminder to maintain personal boundaries, especially in such sensitive places of the body. Perhaps it should be known as the Adam and Eve Apple.

This is because women can have an Adam’s apple. Many people believe that Adam’s apples are exclusively found in men, yet everyone has one because the Adam’s apple is simply the cartilage in front of the larynx (voice box). A man’s Adam’s apple becomes bigger than a woman’s, so it stands out more. The Adam’s apple in women is rarely noticeable, but it can be.
Adam’s apple pain could be indicative of a larger problem.According to resources.healthgrades.com, while pain in your neck and throat near the Adam’s apple may not be the basis of the problem, it can be problematic. Laryngeal cancer symptoms include a sore throat and swallowing pain, but the disease can also cause persistent cough, hoarseness, difficulty breathing, foul breath, and persistent ear ache.
Advanced thyroid cancer can cause pain in your neck and throat, but it is often accompanied by additional symptoms such as swollen lymph nodes and hoarseness. Before you panic, realize that a painful throat could simply be a symptom of a common cold or heartburn. If you’re experiencing persistent pain near your Adam’s apple, consult your doctor.