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Implosive Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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implosive

[ɪmˈpləʊsɪv ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

linguistics

Implosive refers to a type of consonantal sound that is produced by creating a closure in the vocal tract while simultaneously lowering the pressure in the oral cavity. This results in a unique airflow that is pulled inward rather than pushed outward, as is the case with more common stops. Implosives are relatively rare in the world's languages and can often be found in certain African language families. The characteristic sound is produced not only through vocal cord vibration but also through the sudden release of a closure in the oral space.

Examples of usage

  • The sounds /b/ and /d/ can be described as implosive in some dialects.
  • Implosives add a distinct phonetic quality to languages that use them.
  • Understanding implosive sounds is essential for accurate phonetic transcription.
  • The study of implosives reveals much about human speech production.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Linguistics

  • In phonetics, implosive sounds are produced with a downward air pressure, primarily occurring in African languages like Hausa.
  • Certain languages like Hindi and Punjabi use implosive consonants, contributing to their unique sound qualities.

Psychology

  • Implosive therapy is a form of exposure therapy used to help people confront fears by vividly imagining the feared situation, prompting an internal emotional response.
  • This technique is believed to facilitate desensitization by intensifying the emotional experience in a controlled manner.

Science

  • In physics, implosion refers to a process where an object collapses inward due to external pressure exceeding internal pressure, often seen in controlled demolitions.
  • This process can create shockwaves, making it an area of study in engineering, particularly in creating safer demolition methods.

Pop Culture

  • The term 'implosive' appears in various films and books to describe characters or scenarios where crises lead to personal breakdowns rather than explosive reactions.
  • Musical genres like post-rock sometimes use 'implosive' to describe their softer, introspective sounds contrasting with louder, more aggressive styles.

Origin of 'implosive'

Main points about word origin

  • Derived from the Latin 'implodere,' meaning 'to collapse inward.'
  • The prefix 'im-' suggests 'in' or 'into,' while 'plode' relates to exploding or bursting.

The term 'implosive' originates from the field of phonetics and is constructed using the prefix 'in-' meaning 'inward' and the root word 'plosive' which refers to sounds produced by a sudden release of air. The prefix reflects the inward movement of air associated with these consonants. The use of 'implosive' can be traced back to the mid-20th century as researchers began to classify and describe diverse phonetic sounds across different languages more thoroughly. The concept gained traction when linguists analyzed the phonemes present in various African languages, particularly those of the Khoisan family. As the understanding of implosive sounds evolved, the term solidified its place in linguistic studies, helping to enhance the understanding of the complexity of human language and speech production.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,997, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.