Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
phonology
Noun
/fəˈnɒl.ə.dʒi/
Definition
The study of the sound system of a language, including the rules for combining sounds and the relationship between sounds and their meanings.
Examples
- Phonology examines how sounds function within a particular language.
- Linguists often study phonology to understand the differences between dialects.
Meaning
Phonology is primarily concerned with the abstract, cognitive aspects of sounds rather than their physical properties.
Synonyms
- Sound system
- Phonetics
- Speech sounds
