Definition

To pronounce a vowel sound that starts as one vowel and glides into another within the same syllable.

Example

In some dialects, speakers tend to diphthongize certain vowel sounds, making them sound more complex.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Have you ever tried to diphthongize your vowels when singing?

No, but that sounds interesting! How do you do it?

It's all about blending the sounds together smoothly.

Got it! I’ll definitely practice that next time.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Diphthongize → It is formed from "diphthong" (from Greek "diphthongos", meaning two sounds or voices) and "-ize" (a suffix used to form verbs meaning to make or to become). The word "diphthongize" means to make or convert a vowel sound into a diphthong, which is a complex vowel sound that begins with one vowel sound and glides into another.

Memory Tip

Think of 'two sounds' ('diphthong') being 'made into' a new sound ('-ize'). This helps you remember that diphthongize means to create a complex vowel sound.

Visually Confused Words