Definition

Referring to something that comes before a vowel in speech or writing.

Example

In phonetics, a prevocalic consonant is one that appears before a vowel sound.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of the term prevocalic?

No, I haven't! What does it mean?

It refers to sounds that come right before a vowel in a word.

Oh, that makes sense! Linguistics can be so interesting.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Prevocalic → It is formed from "pre-" (meaning before) and "vocalic" (from Latin "vocalis", meaning vocal or relating to the voice). The term "prevocalic" refers to a position that occurs before a vowel sound in speech or writing.

Memory Tip

Think of something that comes 'before' ('pre-') a 'vowel sound' ('vocalic') — that's what prevocalic means.

Visually Confused Words