Phonology

/fəˈnɒlədʒi/

Meaning & Definition

noun
The branch of linguistics that deals with the systematic organization of sounds in languages.
Phonology examines how sounds function in particular languages or dialects.
The study of the abstract sound systems of languages, including phonemes and their patterns.
Understanding phonology is crucial for learning how different languages utilize sound.
The rules and patterns that govern the sound structure of a particular language.
Her research focused on the phonology of the indigenous languages of the region.
The mental representation and processing of sounds in human language.
Phonology plays a key role in comprehending how we produce and perceive speech.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek 'phonē' meaning 'sound' and 'logia' meaning 'study of'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

phonological rules:
Rules that describe the predictable sound patterns in a language.
phonological awareness:
The ability to notice and manipulate sounds in spoken language.
phonemic distinction:
The ability to differentiate sounds that contribute to meaning.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

Sound study
That class on sound study is all about phonology.
Sound rules
When we talk about sound rules in linguistics, we often refer back to phonology.