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noun

onomatopoeia

on-uh-mat-uh-PEE-uh

Onomatopoeia (noun) means a word that imitates the sound it describes, such as buzz, hiss, splash or clang; also the forming of such words. Example: “Crackle" and "pop" are onomatopoeia.”

noun
1
A word that imitates the sound it describes, such as buzz, hiss, splash or clang; also the forming of such words.
""Crackle" and "pop" are onomatopoeia."

How to use onomatopoeia

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA word that sounds like the noise it describes.

Memory tip

Greek "name-making" — the sound makes the name.

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Can you complete this real example?

"Crackle" and "pop" are _____.

Etymology

From Greek "onomatopoiia," the making of names, from "onoma" (name) plus "poiein" (to make).

Origin: Greek

Rhymes for onomatopoeia

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Frequently asked questions

What is onomatopoeia?

A word that sounds like the thing it names — buzz, hiss, sizzle, thud, meow. The word's pronunciation imitates the noise itself.

What are examples of onomatopoeia?

Buzz, hiss, splash, clang, crunch, whoosh, murmur, cuckoo, sizzle, thud and pop are all common examples.

How do you pronounce onomatopoeia?

on-uh-mat-uh-PEE-uh — five syllables, with the stress on the "pee".

What is the meaning of onomatopoeia?

"onomatopoeia" (noun) means a word that imitates the sound it describes, such as buzz, hiss, splash or clang; also the forming of such words.

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial · etymology from FreeDict original editorial