Advanced
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
jitter
Acoustic measure of cycle-to-cycle variation in vocal fold vibration frequency, indicating voice quality and vocal fold function.
Full Definition
Jitter refers to the perturbation or irregularity in the fundamental frequency of vocal fold vibration from one cycle to the next. It is measured as a percentage and reflects the stability of vocal fold oscillation. Elevated jitter values typically indicate pathological voice conditions, neurological disorders affecting laryngeal control, or structural abnormalities of the vocal folds. Normal jitter values are generally below 1.04% for sustained vowel productions.
Usage
Usage note: Always report with specific percentage values and reference ranges for clinical context.
In Context
- "Acoustic analysis revealed elevated jitter at 2.3%, suggesting vocal fold irregularity." — Voice assessment report
- "Post-surgical jitter measurements improved from 1.8% to 0.7% following vocal fold medialization." — Treatment outcome report
Also known as
frequency perturbation
pitch perturbation
Don't confuse with
shimmer
tremor