Definition

The removal of the first vowel sound from a word, often an unstressed one, which changes the word's pronunciation and form.

Example

In linguistics, aphesis is an important concept when studying how words evolve over time.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of the term aphesis?

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

It's when a vowel is dropped from the beginning of a word, like how 'cute' comes from 'acute'.

That's really interesting! I didn't know words could change like that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Aphesis is derived from the Greek "aphesis" (ἀφέσις), meaning release or letting go. It is formed from the prefix "a-" (meaning away from) and "phesis" (from "phesis" meaning to speak or to declare). The term originally referred to the act of letting go of something, particularly in a rhetorical or linguistic context.

Memory Tip

Think of 'letting go' ('aphesis') as a way to remember that this word means a release or a declaration of something.

Visually Confused Words