vocalic
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˈvoʊkəlɪk/
KK: /ˈvoʊkəlɪk/
adjective
Definition
Relating to or consisting of vowel sounds in speech.
Example
In phonetics, vocalic sounds are essential for forming syllables.
Conversation
Have you ever thought about how many vocalic sounds we use every day?
Definitely! It's interesting how vowels play such a big role in language.
Right? I read that understanding vocalic patterns can help with pronunciation.
That's true! It makes a huge difference in how we communicate.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
vowel
sonant
phonetic
Antonyms
consonantal
nonvocalic
silent
noun
Definition
A sound that is produced by the vocal cords and is typically a vowel sound, serving as the most prominent part of a syllable.
Example
In the word 'apple', the vocalic sound is the 'a' and 'e'.
Conversation
I was studying phonetics and came across the term vocalic sounds.
Oh really? What does that mean?
It refers to vowel sounds that are the most prominent in syllables, like in 'cat'.
Root Explanation
Vocalic → It is formed from "vocalis" (from Latin, meaning relating to the voice) and the suffix "-ic" (meaning pertaining to or having the nature of). The word "vocalic" refers to something that is related to or characteristic of the voice or vowels.
Memory Tip
Think of 'vocalis' which relates to the voice, and remember that 'vocalic' means something that pertains to the voice or vowels.
Visually Confused Words
prevocalic
nonvocalic
volcanic