Vowel

n.	1.	(Phon.) A vocal, or sometimes a whispered, sound modified by resonance in the oral passage, the peculiar resonance in each case giving to each several vowel its distinctive character or quality as a sound of speech; - distinguished from a consonant in that the latter, whether made with or without vocality, derives its character in every case from some kind of obstructive action by the mouth organs. Also, a letter or character which represents such a sound. See Guide to Pronunciation, 5, 146-149. Close vowel See under Close, a. Vowel point See under Point, n.
a.	1.	Of or pertaining to a vowel; vocal.

Noun	1.	vowel - a speech sound made with the vocal tract open Synonyms: vowel sound Antonyms: consonant - a speech sound that is not a vowel
	2.	vowel - a letter of the alphabet standing for a spoken vowel

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