Strident vowel

An overview of strident vowels in phonetics

Strident Vowels

Diagram illustrating the articulation of a strident vowel

Strident vowels are a type of vowel sound characterized by a high degree of acoustic energy and a distinctive "hissing" or "buzzing" quality. These vowels are produced with a particular configuration of the vocal tract that enhances certain frequencies, making them stand out in speech.

Articulation

Strident vowels are articulated with a constriction in the vocal tract that creates turbulent airflow. This constriction is typically located at the alveolar ridge or the hard palate, depending on the specific vowel being produced. The tongue is positioned in such a way that it directs the airstream against the teeth or the roof of the mouth, generating the characteristic strident sound.

Acoustic Properties

The acoustic properties of strident vowels include a high level of intensity and a concentration of energy in the higher frequency ranges. This is due to the turbulent airflow and the resonant properties of the vocal tract during the production of these sounds. Strident vowels often have a sharp, piercing quality that makes them easily distinguishable from other vowel types.

Examples in Languages

Strident vowels are not common in all languages, but they can be found in certain African languages, such as Khoisan languages, where they play a significant role in the phonetic inventory. In these languages, strident vowels can contrast with non-strident vowels, adding to the richness of the vowel system.

Related pages

• Vowel
• Phonetics
• Acoustic phonetics
• Articulation (phonetics)