How Do You Spell MOTHER TONGUE?

Pronunciation: [mˈʌðə tˈʌŋ] (IPA)

The spelling of the phrase "mother tongue" can be tricky to figure out phonetically. In IPA transcription, it is written as /ˈmʌðər tʌŋ/, with the first syllable "moth-" pronounced with a schwa sound (ə). The second syllable "er" is pronounced with a light r sound, followed by the "tongue" part which includes a velar nasal sound (ŋ). Despite its tricky spelling, the phrase "mother tongue" refers to a person's first language, one which they acquire naturally as children through communication with family members.

MOTHER TONGUE Meaning and Definition

1. Mother tongue refers to the language that a person acquires naturally from their mother or primary caregiver during their early childhood. It is the first language that one learns and typically forms the basis for communication and understanding within a cultural or familial context. The term emphasizes the connection between language acquisition and the role of the mother in nurturing and teaching a child's linguistic development.

   The mother tongue is acquired through a process of exposure, imitation, and practice. Children learn the phonetics, vocabulary, grammar, and social norms of their mother tongue by interacting with their caregivers and society at large. This language becomes an integral part of their identity, shaping their thoughts, emotions, and means of expression.

   Mother tongue is often a significant aspect of an individual's cultural heritage and communal belonging. It serves as a link to one's family, ancestors, and cultural traditions. It plays a vital role in interpersonal relationships, allowing an individual to establish connections and communicate effectively within a specific community.

   Furthermore, the mother tongue lays the foundation for acquiring additional languages, as it provides a framework and reference point for the understanding and formation of new linguistic structures. It facilitates the development of cognitive and cognitive abilities, as well as literacy and academic skills.

   Overall, the mother tongue represents the language that is naturally acquired during early childhood, forming the basis for communication, identity, and cultural connection.

2. One's native language.

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

Common Misspellings for MOTHER TONGUE

• nother tongue
• kother tongue
• jother tongue
• mither tongue
• mkther tongue
• mlther tongue
• mpther tongue
• m0ther tongue
• m9ther tongue
• morher tongue
• mofher tongue
• mogher tongue
• moyher tongue
• mo6her tongue
• mo5her tongue
• motger tongue
• motber tongue
• motner tongue
• motjer tongue

Etymology of MOTHER TONGUE

The word "mother tongue" originated from Old English, where "mōdor" meant "mother" and "tunge" meant "tongue" or "language". The term was first recorded in the 14th century and referred to the language spoken by one's mother, emphasizing the idea that it is the first language a person learns from their mother. Over time, it became commonly used to describe one's native or first language.

Similar spelling words for MOTHER TONGUE

• moderation,
• Mother Teresa,
• mother wit,
• moderateness,
• mother-tongue teaching,
• Mother Theresa,
• mother-in-law's tongue,
• mother-in-law\'s tongue,
• moderating.

Plural form of MOTHER TONGUE is MOTHER TONGUES