Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
consonant
noun
/ˈkɒn.sə.nənt/
Definition
A consonant is a speech sound that is produced when the airflow is obstructed in some way by the articulatory organs. It can also refer to the letters in the alphabet that represent these sounds.
Examples
- The letters ‘b’, ‘c’, ‘d’, and ‘t’ are consonants.
- In the word ‘cat’, both ‘c’ and ‘t’ are consonants.
- Consonants can be voiced, like ‘b’, or voiceless, like ‘p’.
Meaning
In linguistics, consonants are sounds that are articulated with complete or partial closure of the vocal tract.
Synonyms
- Sound
- Consonantal sound
- Consonantal letter
