Definition

A type of consonant or speech sound that can be held or prolonged without stopping the airflow, like the sounds 's', 'm', or 'l'.

Example

In phonetics, a continuant is a sound that can be extended as long as the speaker has breath.

Conversation

I was studying phonetics and came across the term continuant sounds.

Oh really? What does that mean exactly?

They're consonants that you can hold out, like 's' or 'm' without stopping your breath.

Got it! That makes sense, it's interesting how our voices work.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Continuant → It is formed from "con-" (meaning together) and "tinuare" (from Latin, meaning to hold or to keep). The word "continuant" refers to something that holds or maintains a continuous state or quality.

Memory Tip

Think of things that are 'held together' ('con-') in a continuous manner ('tinuare') — that's why continuant means something that continues.

Visually Confused Words