interdental
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˌɪn.təˈdɛn.təl/
KK: /ˌɪntərˈdɛntəl/
adjective
Definition
Relating to something that is located or used between the teeth.
Example
The dentist recommended using interdental brushes for better oral hygiene.
Conversation
I just bought this new toothbrush that has an interdental feature.
Oh, really? How does that work?
It has a special bristle design to clean between the teeth better.
That sounds great! I need to try something like that.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
dental
oral
tooth
Antonyms
noun
Definition
A sound made by placing the tongue between the teeth, often found in certain languages.
Example
In English, the sounds 'th' in 'think' and 'this' are examples of interdental consonants.
Conversation
Have you heard about the interdental sounds in English?
Yeah, I think they can be tricky for non-native speakers.
Exactly! I always struggle with those consonants.
Root Explanation
Interdental → It is formed from "inter-" (meaning between) and "dental" (from Latin "dentalis", meaning related to teeth). The word "interdental" refers to something that is situated or occurring between the teeth.
Memory Tip
Think of something that is 'between' ('inter-') the 'teeth' ('dental') — that's what interdental means.
Visually Confused Words
intramental
inferential
tridental