Definition

Relating to a type of consonant sound that is produced by forcing air through a narrow channel, causing turbulence.

Example

In phonetics, the sound 's' is an example of a fricative.

Conversation

Have you ever noticed how some sounds are more challenging to pronounce?

Yeah, especially the ones that are fricative like 's' and 'f'.

Exactly! I find them tricky when I'm learning new languages.

Same here! It takes a lot of practice to get them right.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A type of consonant sound made by forcing air through a narrow opening in the vocal tract, creating a friction-like sound, such as the sounds 'f' and 's'.

Example

In phonetics, the sounds 'f' and 's' are examples of fricatives.

Conversation

Have you ever thought about how many fricative sounds we use in English?

Not really, but I guess they are pretty common.

Yeah, like the 'f' in 'fish' or the 's' in 'sun'.

Root Explanation

Fricative → It is formed from "fricare" (meaning to rub) and the suffix "-tive" (indicating a tendency or quality). The word describes a type of consonant produced by forcing air through a narrow channel, creating a rubbing sound.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'fricare' which means to rub, and remember that a fricative sound is made by rubbing air through a narrow space.

Visually Confused Words