Definition

A small mark placed under the letter 'c' to change its pronunciation from a hard 'k' sound to a soft 's' sound, commonly used in languages like French.

Example

In the word 'façade', the cedilla under the 'c' indicates that it should be pronounced like an 's'.

Conversation

Did you know that the letter 'c' has a special mark called a cedilla?

Really? I had no idea what that was until now.

Yeah, it changes the sound from a 'k' to an 's', like in 'façade'.

That's so interesting! I love learning about language rules.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cedilla originates from the Spanish word 'cedilla', which is derived from the diminutive form of 'ceda', meaning 'little hook'. The term refers to the diacritical mark (¸) placed under the letter 'c' to indicate a soft pronunciation (as in 'façade').

Memory Tip

Think of a 'little hook' ('ceda') that helps you remember how to pronounce the letter 'c' softly when you see the cedilla.

Visually Confused Words