Entity: CONSONANT
A consonant is a speech sound that is articulated with complete or partial closure of the vocal tract, excluding [h]. It is a fundamental element of language and is not a vowel.
CONSONANT
Etymology
The term 'consonant' originates from the Latin word 'consonare,' meaning 'to sound together.'
Definition
In articulatory phonetics, a consonant is a speech sound that is produced with complete or partial closure of the vocal tract, except for [h], which is pronounced without any stricture. Consonants are essential building blocks of language and are distinct from vowels.
Historical Context
The concept of consonants has been integral to linguistic studies throughout history, with ancient civilizations recognizing the importance of these sounds in communication.
Cultural Significance
Consonants play a crucial role in shaping the phonetic characteristics of different languages and dialects, influencing the overall sound and structure of speech.
Related Concepts
Consonants are closely related to vowels, which are the other primary category of speech sounds. Understanding the distinction between consonants and vowels is fundamental in phonetics and language studies.
See Also
- [Vowel](link to vowel entry)
- [Phonetics](link to phonetics entry)
A speech sound produced by occluding, diverting, or obstructing the flow of air from the lungs, excluding vowels.