does it play any role in speaking?
In some languages, the epiglottis is used to produce epiglottal consonant speech sounds, though this sound-type is rather rare.
Epiglottis
 In some languages, the epiglottis is used to produce epiglottal consonant speech sounds, though this sound-type is rather rare.
what is the purpose of the epiglottis in the respiratory system of humans It prevents food from entering the windpipe and the lungs what are its variations? A high-rising epiglottis is a normal anatomical variation, visible during an examination of the mouth. It does not cause any serious problem apart from maybe a mild sensation of a foreign body in the throat.
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Epiglottis [SEP] Speech sounds
In many languages, the epiglottis is not essential for producing sounds. In some languages, the epiglottis is used to produce epiglottal consonant speech sounds, though this sound-type is rather rare.