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Semivowel: meaning, definitions and examples

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semivowel

 

[ ˈsɛmɪˌvaʊəl ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

linguistics

A semivowel is a speech sound that has some characteristics of both a consonant and a vowel but functions as a consonant in syllable structure. In English, the common semivowels are the sounds represented by the letters 'y' in 'yes' and 'w' in 'we.' Semivowels are also known as approximants, as they involve relatively open mouth positions, allowing the airflow to be less constricted compared to full consonants. They generally appear in syllable-initial position, contributing to the structure and clarity of speech.

Synonyms

approximant, half-vowel

Examples of usage

  • The word 'yes' begins with a semivowel.
  • In the word 'we', 'w' acts as a semivowel.
  • Semivowels help ease transitions between sounds.
  • You can identify semivowels by their function in syllables.

Translations

Translations of the word "semivowel" in other languages:

🇵🇹 semivogal

🇮🇳 अर्धस्वर (Ardhsvar)

🇩🇪 Halbvokal

🇮🇩 semi-vokal

🇺🇦 напівголосний

🇵🇱 półsamogłoska

🇯🇵 半母音 (Hanboin)

🇫🇷 semi-voyelle

🇪🇸 semivocal

🇹🇷 yarım ünlü

🇰🇷 반모음 (Banmoeum)

🇸🇦 حرف علة نصف (Harf 'ila n'saf)

🇨🇿 půlhláska

🇸🇰 polovohláska

🇨🇳 半元音 (Bàn yuányīn)

🇸🇮 polglas

🇮🇸 hálfhljóð

🇰🇿 жарты дауысты (zharty dauysty)

🇬🇪 ნახევარ ხმას (nakhvar khmas)

🇦🇿 yarım səsli

🇲🇽 semivocal

Etymology

The term 'semivowel' comes from the Latin roots 'semi-' meaning 'half' or 'partially', and 'vowel', which refers to the letters of the alphabet that denote vocal sounds. The concept of semivowels first appeared in linguistic studies as languages evolved, primarily during the 19th century. Linguists aimed to better categorize sounds and clarify the differences between full vowels and consonants. The semivowels 'y' and 'w' were identified as they share features of both categories: they can occur in vowel positions yet function as consonants. This distinction is crucial for understanding phonetics and phonology, particularly in languages that utilize a variety of speech sounds.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,665, 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.