Definition of syllabic
1 : constituting a syllable or the nucleus of a syllable:a : not accompanied in the same syllable by a vowel a syllabic consonantb : having vowel quality more prominent than that of another vowel in the syllable the first vowel of a falling diphthong, as \ȯ\ in \ȯi\, is syllabic
2 : of, relating to, or denoting syllables syllabic accent
3 : characterized by distinct enunciation or separation of syllables
4 : of, relating to, or constituting a type of verse distinguished primarily by count of syllables rather than by rhythmical arrangement of accents or quantities
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Recent Examples of syllabic from the Web
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For English speakers, another huge obstacle may be the German language, with its syllabic pileups.
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In contrast to Kendrick Lamar, who uses Compton’s rap history as the foundation for fanciful flights of syllabic dexterity and lyrical nerve, YG treats it as destiny.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'syllabic.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Origin and Etymology of syllabic
Late Latin syllabicus, from Greek syllabikos, from syllabē syllable
syllabic
Definition of syllabic
: a syllabic character or sound
First Known Use of syllabic
1880
SYLLABIC Defined for English Language Learners
syllabic
playDefinition of syllabic for English Language Learners
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linguistics : of or relating to syllables
SYLLABIC Defined for Kids
syllabic
playDefinition of syllabic for Students
: relating to or being syllables
Learn More about syllabic
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Spanish Central: Translation of syllabic Nglish: Translation of syllabic for Spanish speakers
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