Definition

Describing sounds that are made using both lips together, like the letters b, p, m, and w.

Example

The sounds 'b' and 'p' are examples of bilabial consonants.

Conversation

Have you ever noticed how some sounds are bilabial?

Yeah, like when we say 'm' or 'b', right?

Exactly! It’s interesting how those sounds are made with both lips.

I find phonetics really fascinating, especially the bilabial ones.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A sound made by bringing both lips together, such as the sounds of 'p', 'b', and 'm'.

Example

In phonetics, the sounds 'p', 'b', and 'm' are classified as bilabial consonants.

Conversation

Have you ever thought about how we produce bilabial sounds when we talk?

Yeah, it's interesting how our lips come together for those sounds.

Exactly! I didn't realize how many languages use bilabial consonants.

Root Explanation

Bilabial → It is formed from "bi-" (meaning two) and "labium" (from Latin, meaning lip). The word "bilabial" refers to sounds produced with both lips, hence the meaning of two lips.

Memory Tip

Think of 'two' ('bi-') lips ('labium') working together to create a sound — that's what bilabial means.

Visually Confused Words