Definition

A type of consonant sound produced by forcing air out of the vocal tract while the vocal cords are closed, creating a burst of sound when the closure is released.

Example

In some languages, such as Amharic, ejectives are common and are used to distinguish between different words.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of an ejective?

No, what is that?

It's a type of consonant made by trapping air and releasing it suddenly.

That sounds interesting! I didn't know there were different kinds of consonants.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Ejective is formed from "eject" (from Latin "eicere", meaning to throw out) and the suffix "-ive" (meaning having the nature of). The word "ejective" refers to a sound produced by a sudden release of air, akin to throwing out air forcefully.

Memory Tip

Think of 'throwing out' ('eject') air suddenly, which is what an 'ejective' sound does.

Visually Confused Words