Definition

A sound made by combining three vowel sounds in one syllable, which works together as a single unit.

Example

The word 'fire' contains a triphthong that blends three vowel sounds.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a triphthong?

Yeah, I think it’s a type of vowel sound, right?

Exactly! It combines three sounds into one, which is pretty cool.

I love how complex English can be with things like that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Triphthong → It is formed from 'tri-' (meaning three) and 'phthongos' (meaning sound or voice in Greek). The word 'triphthong' refers to a complex vowel sound that consists of three vowel sounds pronounced in one syllable.

Memory Tip

Think of 'tri-' meaning three, and 'phthong' relating to sound — a triphthong is a sound made up of three vowel sounds.

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