Why You Should Not Touch A Man’s Adam’s Apple
The Adam’s apple—a small bump that’s especially noticeable in men—might seem like just another quirky human trait. But there’s more to this feature than meets the eye. From its misunderstood origins to its unexpected sensitivity, here are some surprising facts about the Adam’s apple you might not know.
What Exactly Is an Adam’s Apple?
The Adam’s apple is the visible part of the thyroid cartilage, which sits in front of the larynx (or voice box). During puberty, this cartilage grows larger, especially in boys, which is why the Adam’s apple tends to be more prominent in men than in women.
Functionally, it doesn’t do much—its purpose is minimal—but it’s a common physical characteristic, especially in adult males.
Where Did the Name Come From? (Hint: Not the Bible)
Many assume the name “Adam’s apple” comes from the biblical story of Adam and Eve—specifically, the idea that a piece of the forbidden fruit got stuck in Adam’s throat as a mark of original sin. But that’s actually not the case.
According to Healthgrades, the term may have originated from a linguistic mix-up. In medieval Arabic medical texts, the protrusion in the throat was referred to as a “pomegranate”—possibly due to its round shape. Around the same time, Latin terms for both “apple” and “pomegranate” were very similar. When these terms were translated into English in the early 1600s, the idea of “Adam’s apple” was born—not from scripture, but from semantics.
Why You Shouldn’t Touch a Guy’s Adam’s Apple
The Adam’s apple isn’t just for show—it’s a sensitive area on the neck. That’s because it protects the vocal cords and is surrounded by delicate tissue and nerves. Touching this area can feel uncomfortable, ticklish, or even intrusive for some.
The phrase “makes them more sensitive” likely refers to how repeated or unwanted touching can increase a person’s awareness of the sensation, making it even more uncomfortable over time. As with all physical boundaries, it’s best to be respectful—especially around sensitive areas like the neck and throat.
Women Have Them Too—They’re Just Less Visible
Despite the name, the Adam’s apple is not exclusive to men. Everyone has one—women included—because it’s simply a part of the larynx’s structure. During puberty, however, the cartilage grows larger and more angular in males, leading to a more prominent bump.
In women, the cartilage typically remains smaller and rounder, making it less visible—but it’s still there!
Maybe It Should Be Called the “Adam and Eve” Apple
Given that both men and women have a thyroid cartilage, maybe it’s time to retire the gendered name and go for something more inclusive—like the “Adam and Eve apple.” Regardless of what we call it, understanding the Adam’s apple can help us better appreciate the complexity (and quirkiness) of the human body.
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