Definition

The process of producing a sound by raising the back of the tongue towards the soft part of the roof of the mouth.

Example

In linguistics, velarization can change the quality of certain consonant sounds.

Conversation

Have you heard about the concept of velarization in linguistics?

Yeah, it's fascinating how it affects pronunciation.

I read that it involves using the back of the tongue, which is pretty interesting.

Exactly! It really changes how we articulate certain sounds.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Velarization → It is formed from "velaris" (from Latin, meaning pertaining to the velum or veil) and "-ization" (a suffix used to form nouns indicating a process or action). The term refers to the process of articulating a sound with the back of the tongue against the soft palate, resembling the action of a veil.

Memory Tip

Think of 'velaris' as relating to a 'veil' that covers or modifies sound, helping you remember that 'velarization' is the process of modifying sounds in speech.

Visually Confused Words