Definition

Relating to a type of speech sound that begins as a stop and releases as a fricative, creating a combined sound.

Example

The affricative sounds in the language include both a stop and a fricative component.

Conversation

Did you know that some sounds in languages are described as affricative?

Really? I never heard that term before.

Yeah, it’s interesting how they combine a stop and a fricative sound.

That makes sense! I’ll have to look it up.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A type of speech sound that begins as a stop and releases as a fricative, often found in languages like English.

Example

The affricative sound in 'judge' is produced by first blocking the airflow and then releasing it with friction.

Conversation

Have you ever heard about the term affricative?

No, I haven't! What does it mean?

It's a type of consonant sound made by stopping airflow and then releasing it, like 'ch' in 'cheese'.

Root Explanation

Affricative is formed from "ad-" (meaning to) and "fricare" (meaning to rub) combined with the suffix "-ive" (indicating a tendency or quality). The term describes a consonant sound that begins as a stop and releases as a fricative, thus 'rubbing' the airflow after a complete closure.

Memory Tip

Think of a sound that starts with a complete stop ('ad-') and then 'rubs' the airflow ('fricare') to create a different sound — that's what an affricative does.

Visually Confused Words