Simple Definition of palatal

from our Learner's Dictionary

palatal

adjective

linguistics, of a speech sound : made by placing the tongue so that it is near or touching the top surface (called the palate) of your mouth
The first sound in the English word "jar" is a palatal sound.

Cite this Entry

“Palatal.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/palatal. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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