How Do You Spell AFTERMATH?

Pronunciation: [ˈaftəmˌaθ] (IPA)

The word "aftermath" is spelled with the letter combination "th" at the end, even though it is often pronounced more like an "f" sound. This is because the "th" represents the unvoiced dental fricative sound /θ/. The first syllable is pronounced with a short "a" sound, as in "cat," while the second syllable has a long "a" sound, as in "hey." So the proper IPA transcription would be /ˈæftərmæθ/. Despite its somewhat irregular spelling, "aftermath" is a commonly used word in English to refer to the consequences or effects of an event.

AFTERMATH Meaning and Definition

1. The aftermath is a noun that refers to the consequences or effects that follow an event, particularly a significant or destructive one. Derived from the Middle English word "aftermæthe," meaning "second mowing or crop," its usage has evolved to describe the events that occur after a specific incident, often focusing on the repercussions or outcomes that arise from it.

   The term typically denotes the aftermath of disastrous occurrences such as natural disasters, wars, accidents, or other cataclysmic incidents. It embodies the period of time that transpires immediately following the event, during which the impacts materialize and reverberate throughout the affected environment, society, or individual lives.

   The aftermath encapsulates a sense of reflection, evaluation, and adjustment as people and places adapt to the new conditions or consequences brought about by the initial occurrence. It often involves a stage of recovery, restoration, or rebuilding. Additionally, the aftermath implies a lingering effect or a trace of the original event as it continues to shape subsequent developments and decisions.

   The aftermath is relevant across various domains, encompassing political, economic, social, and emotional arenas. However, it is particularly associated with negative or disruptive events. The term ultimately conveys the notion that the implications of a significant occurrence can extend beyond its immediate context, leaving a lasting impact that necessitates resolution, adaptation, or healing.

2. A second crop of grass in the same season.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for AFTERMATH *

• aftermatch 20%
• aftemath 10%
• aftermarth 10%

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for AFTERMATH

• afermath
• aftermat
• afttermath
• afftermath
• lattermth
• Aftergrth
• Aftemathe
• Afteemosts
• affermat

Etymology of AFTERMATH

The word "aftermath" originated in Middle English, with its roots traced back to the Old English word "æftermǣlum". It is a combination of two words: "æfter", meaning "after", and "mǣlum", which refers to "a measure" or "a time". The term originally denoted the second mowing or cutting of grass or crops after the first, indicating the period after the main harvest. Over time, its meaning broadened to figuratively represent the consequences or events that follow a significant event, leading to the modern-day usage of "aftermath".

Similar spelling words for AFTERMATH

• afterdamp,
• afterward,
• after-shave,
• after-hours,
• afters,
• aftershock,
• aftertaste,
• afterbirth,
• afterthought,
• aftermost,
• after hours,
• aftershaft,
• afterworld,
• afterwards,
• aftercare,
• aftershafted,
• after part,
• afterburner,
• afterimage.

Plural form of AFTERMATH is AFTERMATHS