The sternothyroid muscle is a thin, flat muscle located in the neck. It is part of the infrahyoid muscles, which help stabilize the hyoid bone and assist in movements of the larynx during swallowing and speaking. The muscle originates from the manubrium of the sternum and inserts into the thyroid cartilage of the larynx. This muscle plays a crucial role in lowering the larynx and is innervated by the ansa cervicalis, a loop of nerves in the neck. Proper functioning of the sternothyroid muscle is important for effective communication and safe swallowing.