alveolization
|al-ve-o-li-za-tion|
/ælˌviːəlaɪˈzeɪʃən/
forming alveoli
Etymology
'alveolization' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'alveolus,' where 'alveus' meant 'cavity' or 'hollow.'
'alveolus' transformed into the English word 'alveolization' to describe the process of forming alveoli.
Initially, it meant 'forming small cavities,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'forming alveoli in speech sounds.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the process of forming alveoli, which are small cavities or pits, especially in the context of speech sounds where a sound is articulated with the tongue against or close to the superior alveolar ridge.
The alveolization of certain sounds is common in many languages.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/07/26 08:40