continuant

American  

[kuhn-tin-yoo-uhnt] / kənˈtɪn yu ənt /

noun

1. a consonant, as f or s, that may be prolonged without change of quality.

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adjective

1. pertaining to or noting a continuant.

continuant British  

/ kənˈtɪnjʊənt /

noun

1. a speech sound, such as (l), (r), (f), or (s), in which the closure of the vocal tract is incomplete, allowing the continuous passage of the breath

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adjective

1. relating to or denoting a continuant

Etymology

Origin of continuant

1600–10; < Latin continuant-, stem of continuāns, present participle of continuāre to continue; see -ant

Example Sentences

A series of tones executed on continuant consonants, like m, z, or l, gives the effect of humming, droning, or buzzing.

From Language An Introduction to the Study of Speech by Sapir, Edward

Bonaparte continuant � s'addresser an Sous-Pref�t, lui dit, "Que fait le Pref�t?"

From Travels in France during the years 1814-15 Comprising a residence at Paris, during the stay of the allied armies, and at Aix, at the period of the landing of Bonaparte, in two volumes. by Alison, Archibald, Sir

Apres avoir chang� les chevaux, Bonaparte continuant sa route, passa sous les murs de la ville, au milieu des cris repet�s de "Vive le Roi," que firent entendre les habitants accourus sur les remparts.

From Travels in France during the years 1814-15 Comprising a residence at Paris, during the stay of the allied armies, and at Aix, at the period of the landing of Bonaparte, in two volumes. by Alison, Archibald, Sir