Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
retroflex
adjective
/ˈrɛtrəʊflɛks/
Definition
Retroflex refers to a speech sound that is articulated with the tip of the tongue curled back against the roof of the mouth.
Examples
- The sound /ɽ/ in some languages is an example of a retroflex consonant.
- In Hindi, the pronunciation of certain words changes depending on whether the consonant is retroflex.
- Learning to produce retroflex sounds can be challenging for non-native speakers.
Meaning
In phonetics, it describes a specific type of articulation that involves curling the tongue back, which can affect the sound produced.
Synonyms
- curl-tongue
- post-alveolar
- back-tongue
