Slurring Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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slurring

[หˆslษœหrษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

speech impairment

Slurring refers to the act of speaking words in a way that they are not distinctly articulated, often resulting in a blending or unintelligibility of the sounds. This can occur due to various factors including intoxication, fatigue, or medical conditions that affect speech.

Synonyms

blurring, mumbling, stumbling.

Examples of usage

  • His slurring made it hard to understand what he was saying.
  • After a few drinks, she began slurring her words.
  • The patient's slurring was a sign of a possible stroke.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Linguistics

  • In speech, slurring can occur naturally when a person talks quickly, causing words to blend together.
  • Some languages have specific dialects where slurring is more common, showing how speech varies across cultures.
  • Slurring can also be a feature of poetry and song lyrics, creating a rhythmic flow.

Health

  • Slurring may be a sign of conditions like exhaustion, intoxication, or neurological disorders, prompting attention to the speakerโ€™s well-being.
  • Heavy use of alcohol or drugs can impair motor control, affecting speech patterns, including slurring.
  • Medical professionals often look for slurring as a symptom of strokes or other serious health issues.

Pop Culture

  • In movies and TV shows, characters may be portrayed as slurring their words when they are intoxicated, influencing public perception.
  • Some musical artists intentionally use slurred speech techniques in their songs to create a unique sound or style.
  • Famous comedians sometimes exaggerate slurring in their routines for comedic effect.

Psychology

  • People can sometimes slur their words out of nervousness or anxiety, which can influence how they communicate in social situations.
  • Studies show that slurring may affect listeners' perceptions, causing them to view the speaker as less credible or confident.
  • Relieving stress can improve clarity of speech, suggesting a connection between mental state and verbal communication.

Education

  • Teachers might encounter slurring in students who are tired or under stress, emphasizing the importance of supportive environments.
  • Speech therapy can help individuals practice clearer pronunciation, which addresses stumbling and slurring in communication.
  • Literature often discusses the nuances of speech, including slurring, to highlight character emotions and authenticity.

Origin of 'slurring'

The term 'slurring' originates from the verb 'slur', which came into English in the late 14th century, derived from the Middle English 'sluren', meaning to speak indistinctly or to blur together. It can also be traced back to Old Norse 'slรบra', which means to smear or spread. Slurring in the context of speech has come to describe a particular manner of articulation where words are not pronounced clearly. Over time, it has become associated with various conditions including drunkenness or speech disorders, indicating a lack of clarity caused either by external substances or underlying health issues.


Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,123 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.