Definition

A type of vowel sound that is pronounced in a relaxed way, often found in unstressed syllables of words, like the 'a' in 'sofa'.

Example

In the word 'banana', the first and last 'a' are pronounced as a schwa sound.

Conversation

Have you ever heard about the schwa sound in English?

Yeah, it's that neutral vowel, right?

Exactly! It's so interesting how it appears in unstressed syllables.

I know! It makes pronunciation a lot easier once you get the hang of it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Schwa originates from the Hebrew word 'שְׁוָא' (sheva), meaning 'emptiness' or 'nothingness'. In linguistics, it refers to an unstressed and toneless vowel sound, often represented by the symbol 'ə'.

Memory Tip

Think of the Hebrew word for emptiness ('שְׁוָא') to remember that a schwa is a sound that feels light and unstressed, almost like nothing.

Visually Confused Words