Pronunciation: [slˈants] (IPA) 
The word "slants" is spelled with the letters S-L-A-N-T-S. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is pronounced /slænts/. The "s" is pronounced as an unvoiced consonant, and the "l" is pronounced with the tongue pressed against the roof of the mouth. The vowel sound is a short "a," and the "n" and "t" sounds are pronounced as unvoiced consonants. Overall, the word "slants" accurately represents the sounds it contains.
Slants is a plural noun derived from the verb "to slant" and refers to a deviation from the vertical or horizontal direction. The term can be used both literally and figuratively to describe a variety of situations.
In its literal sense, slants describe lines, surfaces, or objects that have a diagonal or inclined position compared to a straight or level direction. For example, a rooftop can have slants, indicating that it is inclined rather than flat. In typography, slants refer to italic or oblique letterforms, where the characters lean to one side rather than standing upright.
Figuratively, slants can denote a biased point of view or a particular perspective on a given subject. It refers to presenting or interpreting information with a specific bias or prejudice, often resulting in a skewed representation of facts or ideas. A news article or opinion piece may have political slants, presenting information in ways that support a particular ideology. Similarly, personal biases can slant an individual's perception of events or situations.
Furthermore, slants can be used to describe angled or tilted movements, as in "He slants his head to the side" or "They slanted their bodies while downhill skiing." In sports, such as football or baseball, "slant" can refer to an angled pass or pitch designed to deceive defenders or gain an advantage.
Overall, slants encompass both physical deviations from a straight line and biased viewpoints, highlighting the inclination or bias present in various contexts.
The word "slants" can have multiple interpretations and therefore several origins.
1. As a verb meaning to lean or slope, "slant" comes from the Old Norse word "slenja" or "slenge", which means to incline, slope, or turn sideways.
2. When used as a noun meaning an inclination or slope, the word derives from the Middle Dutch word "slant" or "schlent", which also means an inclination or diagonal direction.
3. In the context of racially offensive language, the term "slant" or "slanted eyes" refers to the shape of the eyes of individuals of East Asian origin. This notion originated from the physical characteristics of some East Asian populations, which include the epicanthic fold that can cause the shape of the eye to appear more almond-shaped or slanted. However, it is important to note that this usage is considered derogatory and offensive.
