How Do You Spell VOICELESS?

Pronunciation: [vˈɔ͡ɪsləs] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "voiceless" may seem confusing at first, but it can be easily explained using IPA phonetic transcription. The word is spelled with an "i" and not an "o" because the "o" sound would indicate a voiced consonant, whereas "voiceless" means there is no vibration in the vocal cords when pronouncing the consonant. The IPA transcription for "voiceless" is /ˈvɔɪsləs/, with the "s" being pronounced without any voicing. Remember: the "i" is what makes the difference in the spelling of this word.

Meaning and Definition
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VOICELESS Meaning and Definition

  1. The term "voiceless" refers to the absence or lack of sound produced by the vocal cords during speech or phonetic activities. In the context of phonetics, "voiceless" conveys the characteristic of an unvoiced sound, which is produced without the use of vocal cord vibrations.

    Voiceless sounds, also called voiceless consonants, occur when airflow is not obstructed by the vocal cords. The articulators, such as the tongue, teeth, and lips, shape the airflow to create distinct sounds. These sounds are typically perceived as sharper, more intense, and shorter in duration compared to their voiced counterparts.

    In linguistics, voiceless sounds are phonemes, or distinctive units of sound, that can change the meaning of a word when substituted or omitted. For instance, the voiceless sound /p/ in the word "pot" distinguishes it from "bought," where the voiced sound /b/ is used.

    Moreover, "voiceless" can also describe individuals who lack the ability to speak due to physical or neurological conditions. These individuals may communicate through alternative means such as sign language or written text.

    In summary, "voiceless" denotes the absence of vocal cord vibration during speech, leading to the production of voiceless sounds. Additionally, it can be used to describe individuals who do not possess the ability to speak.

  2. Having no voice or vote.

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

Common Misspellings for VOICELESS

Etymology of VOICELESS

The word "voiceless" is formed by combining the prefix "voice-" and the suffix "-less".

The prefix "voice-" comes from the Latin word "vox" meaning "voice" or "sound". This Latin term has roots in the Indo-European language family, specifically from the Proto-Indo-European root "*wek-", which also meant "voice" or "sound".

The suffix "-less" is derived from the Old English word "-leas" meaning "without" or "lacking". It is similar to the Middle Dutch suffix "-loos" with the same meaning.

So, when combined, "voice-" and "-less" create the word "voiceless", indicating the absence or lack of a voice or sound.

Similar spelling words for VOICELESS