penult
noun
the next to the last syllable in a word.
penultima
-
a variation of
penult.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The rule of apex applies also to words of more than two syllables with long penultima, as gravamen, arena, saliva, abdomen, acumen.
From Society for Pure English Tract 4 The Pronunciation of English Words Derived from the Latin by John Sargeaunt
Words of more than two syllables with a single consonant before the termination throw the stress back and shorten a long penultima, as 'ignorant', 'president', 'confident', 'adjutant'.
From Society for Pure English Tract 4 The Pronunciation of English Words Derived from the Latin by John Sargeaunt
Again he knows 'irradiate', and finding that the penultima of irradiabitur is short he says ĭrrādĭăbĭtŭr.
From Society for Pure English Tract 4 The Pronunciation of English Words Derived from the Latin by John Sargeaunt
Disyllables lengthen the penultima, as 'able', 'stable', 'noble', while 'mobile', as in French, lengthens its latter vowel.
From Society for Pure English Tract 4 The Pronunciation of English Words Derived from the Latin by John Sargeaunt
Here the long i is retained, and in disyllables the penultima is lengthened, as in 'anile', 'senile', 'virile'.
From Society for Pure English Tract 4 The Pronunciation of English Words Derived from the Latin by John Sargeaunt
