fricative
adjective/ˈfrɪkətɪv/
Frequency rank: #19,677 most common English word
Meaning
A consonant sound produced by forcing air through a narrow passage, creating friction (e.g., f, v, s, z).
Example sentence
The sound at the start of 'fish' is classified as fricative in phonetics.
Synonyms & related words
- sibilant
- spirant
- continuant
Practice this word in the quiz
More words in ranks 19,601–19,700
- toiletryAn item used for personal hygiene or grooming, such as soap, shampoo, or a toothbrush.
- doubtera person who is skeptical or uncertain about something
- stomatamicroscopic pores found on the surface of plant leaves that regulate gas exchange and water vapor release.
- breadcrumba small fragment of bread, or a navigational hint that helps trace a path or route.
- carotenoidA natural fat-soluble pigment found in plants and animals, typically producing yellow, orange, or red colors.
- occultationThe hiding of one celestial body by another passing in front of it.
- syncopationA rhythmic effect created by stressing beats that are normally weak or unstressed, common in jazz and popular music.
- terrineA type of pâté or forcemeat cooked and served in a loaf-shaped earthenware dish.
- calorimeterA device used to measure the amount of heat absorbed or released in a chemical or physical process.
- catabolismthe metabolic process by which complex molecules are broken down into simpler ones, releasing energy.