RETROFLEX Meaning and
Definition
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The term retroflex is an adjective typically used in linguistics to describe a sound or letter that is pronounced by curling or bending the tip of the tongue backward towards the roof of the mouth. It is derived from the Latin words "retro" meaning "backward," and "flectere" meaning "to bend."
In the context of phonetics, the retroflex feature refers to a specific type of consonant produced by creating a constriction or closure at a point further back in the mouth than its non-retroflex counterpart. This distinctive articulation is achieved by raising the tongue tip towards the hard palate or even touching it, while the body of the tongue is typically slightly lowered.
The retroflex sounds can vary in terms of their place of articulation, from the alveolar retroflex sounds, produced with the tongue tip curled back against the alveolar ridge, to the postalveolar retroflex sounds, where the tip is slightly bent back towards the postalveolar area. Retroflex sounds are found in various languages, including Indian languages like Hindi or Tamil, as well as in Mandarin Chinese.
The retroflex feature can also refer to individual letters or symbols used to represent retroflex sounds in written language systems, such as the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). In these systems, a specific diacritic mark, such as a small inverted "v" or "u" shape, is often added above or below the letter to indicate its retroflex quality.
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Bent backwards; in bot., bent this way and that.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for RETROFLEX
Etymology of RETROFLEX
The word "retroflex" is derived from Latin roots.
The prefix "retro" comes from the Latin word "retro", meaning "backward" or "backwards". This suggests a movement or position that is directed or bent backward.
The word "flex" comes from the Latin verb "flectere", meaning "to bend" or "to curve". It represents the action of bending or curving.
When combined, "retro" and "flex" form "retroflex", which refers to a specific type of pronunciation where the tip or blade of the tongue is curled or bent backward towards the roof of the mouth.
Similar spelling words for RETROFLEX
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