Sibilance

usgb/ˈsɪb.ɪ.ləns/
noun

Sibilance is a characteristic of speech or writing that involves the use of 's' or 'sh' sounds that create a hissing effect.

The poem's sibilance made the reading smooth and melodic.
Visual representation of "sibilance" - Sibilance is a characteristic of speech or writing that involves the use of 's' or 'sh' sounds that create a hissing effect.

Often appears as...

  • assonance and sibilance
  • sibilance in poetry

Usage tips

Neutral

poetic devices, phonetic features, sound patterns

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Visual representation of "sibilance"
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Artistic Use

Sibilance can enhance the musicality of poetry.

Illustration for Artistic Use
The use of strong sibilance can create a calming effect in a poem.
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Speech Clarity

In spoken language, sibilance can clarify speech but also may create issues with microphone feedback.

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Listeners may find excessive sibilance distracting.
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Creating Tension

Writers might use sibilance to create tension or urgency in a narrative.

Illustration for Creating Tension
In thrillers, sharp sibilant sounds might punctuate moments of suspense.
Visual representation of the word "Sibilance"

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