Spirant

[spaiәrәnt]

Definition

(n.) A term used differently by different authorities; -- by some as equivalent to fricative, -- that is, as including all the continuous consonants, except the nasals m, n, ng; with the further exception, by others, of the liquids r, l, and the semivowels w, y; by others limited to f, v, th surd and sonant, and the sound of German ch, -- thus excluding the sibilants, as well as the nasals, liquids, and semivowels. See Guide to Pronunciation, // 197-208.

Editor: Lou

Definition

n. a consonant which is fricative or continuable—opp. to explosive esp. v and f th dh; by others made to include the sibilants and the semi-vowels w and y.

Typist: Miguel