consonantal (C1)

adjective

Pronunciation: /ˌkɒnsəˈnæntəl/

Definition

Relating to or having the nature of a consonant sound.

Examples

• The 'y' in 'yes' has a consonantal quality, unlike the 'y' in 'sky'.

• Many languages distinguish between vocalic and consonantal sounds in their phonological systems.

• A strong consonantal cluster can make a word difficult for non-native speakers to pronounce.

Synonyms of consonantal

Words with a similar meaning to consonantal:

• consonant-like
• obstruent
• approximant

Antonyms of consonantal

Words with the opposite meaning to consonantal:

• vocalic
• vowel-like

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