Spirant

usgb/ˈspaɪərənt/
noun

A speech sound that is formed by a narrowing or closing of part of the vocal tract, like 'f', 'v', 's', 'z' sounds in English.

In English, sounds like 's' or 'f' are examples of spirants.
Visual representation of "spirant" - A speech sound that is formed by a narrowing or closing of part of the vocal tract, like 'f', 'v', 's', 'z' sounds in English.

Often appears as...

  • voiceless spirant
  • voiced spirant

Usage tips

Technical

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "spirant"
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Pronouncing Spirants

To say a spirant correctly, gently push air through a narrow space in your mouth.

Illustration for Pronouncing Spirants
When you say 'f' in 'fish', you're pronouncing a voiceless spirant.
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Voicing Differences

Voiceless spirants, like 's', are made without using vocal cords, unlike voiced spirants, like 'z'.

Illustration for Voicing Differences
To feel the difference, place a finger on your throat as you alternate between 's' and 'z'.
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Spotting Spirants

Identify spirants in words by looking for letters that create a hissing or buzzing sound.

Illustration for Spotting Spirants
The 's' in 'snake' and the 'v' in 'van' are both spirants.
Visual representation of the word "Spirant"

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