regressive assimilation

noun Phonetics.

assimilation in which a following sound has an effect on a preceding one, as in pronouncing have in have to as [haf] /hæf/, influenced by the voiceless (t) in to.

Compare progressive assimilation.

Origin of regressive assimilation

First recorded in 1885–90

Also called anticipatory assimilation.

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018