Throaty Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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throaty

[หˆฮธroสŠti ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

sound quality

Throaty refers to a type of sound characterized by a deep, rough, and resonant quality, often produced in the vocal cords. It is commonly associated with a voice that has a rich, full-bodied sound, sometimes described as having a gravelly texture.

Synonyms

gravelly, hoarse, raspy.

Examples of usage

  • She sang with a throaty voice that captivated the audience.
  • The actor delivered his lines with a throaty growl that added intensity to the scene.
  • After a cold, his voice had a throaty timbre that was unusual for him.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Music

  • Singers with a throaty voice often have a unique ability to convey emotion, which is why they can captivate audiences.
  • Genres like blues or jazz frequently feature throaty vocalists, adding to the raw emotional quality of the music.

Psychology

  • Research shows that people often associate deeper voices with authority and confidence, which can influence social dynamics.
  • The emotional impact of a throaty voice can be comforting, making listeners feel relaxed or safe in conversations.

Cultural References

  • Many film and television characters are designed with throaty voices to convey strength or danger, making them more memorable.
  • In poetry and literature, a throaty voice may reflect deep passion or torment, enhancing the emotional landscape of the piece.

Health

  • A throaty voice can sometimes indicate a respiratory issue, like laryngitis, highlighting the importance of vocal health.
  • Vocal training and warm-ups can allow singers to develop a throaty quality without straining their vocal cords.

Origin of 'throaty'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'throaty' comes from 'throat', which has Old English roots, originally associated with the part of the body that allows us to speak.
  • It has been used since the 19th century to describe voices that are deep and full in tone.

The word 'throaty' derives from the Middle English term 'throat,' which itself comes from Old English 'รพrลซth,' meaning 'throat' or 'gullet.' The adjective form emerged to describe sounds or qualities emanating from the throat, highlighting the importance of this bodily part in producing certain vocal characteristics. The evolution of language brought 'throaty' into common usage, particularly in relation to vocal descriptors, often used in music and performance contexts. It has since expanded to include not only vocal qualities but also other sounds produced similarly. Over time, the association with deep and rich sounds further cemented its place in the English lexicon.


Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,775, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.