Meaning of palatal in English

1. Pronunciation

   /ˈpælədl/

   US accent

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   UK accent

   How to pronounce palatal in British English, in context ▾
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1. Classifying Adjective

   palatal

   Definitions

   1. produced with the front of the tongue near or touching the hard palate (as `y') or with the blade of the tongue near the hard palate (as `ch' in `chin' or `j' in `gin')

   Synonyms

   • soft

2. Noun

   palatal

   Definitions

   1. a semivowel produced with the tongue near the palate (like the initial sound in the English word `yeast')

3. Qualitative Adjective

   palatal

   Etymology

   early 18th century: from French, from Latin palatum (see palate)

   Definitions

   1. relating to or lying near the palate

   Examples

   • « palatal index »
   • « the palatine tonsils »