Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

onomatopoeic

Adjective
/ˌɒnəˌmætəˈpiːɪk/
Definition
Relating to or denoting a word that imitates the sound it describes.
Examples
  • The word ‘buzz’ is onomatopoeic as it mimics the sound of a bee.
  • Children often enjoy onomatopoeic words in stories, such as ‘moo’ for cows and ‘bang’ for explosions.
  • Examples of onomatopoeic words include ‘sizzle,’ ‘pop,’ and ‘clang.’
Meaning
Onomatopoeic words are used to convey sounds through language, mimicking natural sounds or noises.
Synonyms
  • Sound-imitating
  • Sound-symbolic