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Definitions from WordNet

Definitions from the Web

Labial Consonant

A labial consonant, also known as a labial, is a type of consonant sound produced by manipulating the lips. When pronouncing a labial consonant, the airflow is either completely blocked or partially obstructed by the lips.

Labial consonants are further categorized into two subtypes: bilabial and labiodental consonants.

1. Bilabial Consonant: A bilabial consonant is produced by bringing both lips together. The sounds /p/, /b/, and /m/ are examples of bilabial consonants.
2. Labiodental Consonant: A labiodental consonant is produced by touching the bottom lip to the upper teeth. The sounds /f/ and /v/ are examples of labiodental consonants.

Labial consonants play a crucial role in various languages and are vital in forming distinct sounds and pronunciation. They are an essential component of both popular and local dialects across the world.

Examples in Sentences:

Bilabial Consonant:

1. He pronounced the word "bag" with a strong /b/ sound, emphasizing the bilabial consonant.
2. The infant's first utterance was the sound /m/, a common bilabial consonant.

Labiodental Consonant:

1. She struggled with the pronunciation of the word "vase" as the /v/ sound is a labiodental consonant.
2. When he laughed, his front teeth were visible due to the labiodental consonant /f/ sound.

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