Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
aphaeresis
Noun
/əˈfɪərəsɪs/
Definition
The loss of a sound or syllable at the beginning of a word.
Examples
- In the word ’round’ from ‘around’, the initial ‘a’ is an example of aphaeresis.
- Aphaeresis can often be seen in poetry where a syllable is dropped for rhythm.
Meaning
Aphaeresis occurs when a vowel or syllable is omitted from the start of a word, often changing its pronunciation and form.
Synonyms
- Sound omission
- Syllable dropping
- Initial sound loss
