noun

epenthesis

ih-PEN-thuh-sis

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Epenthesis (noun) means the insertion of a sound, letter or syllable into a word, usually because of the sound patterns of a language. Example: “The extra vowel in some speakers' pronunciation of "film" as "filum" is an example of epenthesis.”

noun

technical The insertion of a sound, letter or syllable into a word, usually because of the sound patterns of a language.

"The extra vowel in some speakers' pronunciation of "film" as "filum" is an example of epenthesis."

"Linguists use the term epenthesis for a sound added in the middle of a word."

"Epenthesis often helps speakers pronounce awkward groups of consonants."

How to use epenthesis

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishAdding an extra sound or letter inside a word.

When to use it

It is a technical term used mainly in linguistics and phonetics.

Memory tip

Think of it as something put into the middle of a word, not added at the start or end.

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Common pairings

vowel epenthesis consonant epenthesis an example of epenthesis

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The extra vowel in some speakers' pronunciation of "film" as "filum" is an example of _____.

Etymology

The word entered English in the middle of the 16th century by way of Late Latin. It comes from Ancient Greek epenthesis, from a verb meaning to insert.

Origin: Late Latin

Antonyms

syncope

Related words

suspension syncope deliquium swoon

Rhymes for epenthesis

thesis nemesis genesis exegesis diaeresis anamnesis apheresis synthesis antithesis hypothesis prosthesis abiogenesis

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Frequently asked questions

What does epenthesis mean?

Epenthesis is the insertion of a sound, letter or syllable into a word. It usually happens to make the word easier to say within the sound patterns of a language.

How do you pronounce epenthesis?

It is pronounced ih-PEN-thuh-sis, with the stress on the second syllable.

What is the plural of epenthesis?

The plural is epentheses.

What is the meaning of epenthesis?

"epenthesis" (noun) means the insertion of a sound, letter or syllable into a word, usually because of the sound patterns of a language.

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