apocopes

[əˈpɒkəpiːz]

apocopes Definition

the loss of one or more sounds or syllables from the end of a word, especially the unstressed vowel sound in a word ending in -ic or -sion.

Using apocopes: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "apocopes" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The apocope of the final 'e' in 'have' is common in spoken English.

  • Example

    The word 'gymnasium' comes from the Greek 'gymnasion', with an apocope of the final syllable.

  • Example

    The apocope of the unstressed vowel in 'fantastic' results in the pronunciation [fæn'tæstɪk].

apocopes Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for apocopes

Phrases with apocopes

  • apocope of -ic

    the loss of the unstressed vowel sound in words ending in -ic

    Example

    The apocope of the final vowel in 'electric' results in the pronunciation [ɪˈlɛktrɪk].

  • apocope of -sion

    the loss of the unstressed vowel sound in words ending in -sion

    Example

    The apocope of the final vowel in 'decision' results in the pronunciation [dɪˈsɪʒn̩].

  • apocope of -ing

    the loss of the final syllable '-ing' in certain words

    Example

    The apocope of the final syllable in 'something' results in the pronunciation ['sʌmθɪŋ].

Origins of apocopes

from Greek 'apokoptein', meaning 'cutting off'

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Summary: apocopes in Brief

'Apocopes' [əˈpɒkəpiːz] refer to the loss of one or more sounds or syllables from the end of a word, particularly the unstressed vowel sound in words ending in -ic or -sion. Examples include the apocope of the final 'e' in 'have' and the unstressed vowel in 'fantastic.' The term 'apocope' extends into phrases like 'apocope of -ic,' which denotes the loss of the unstressed vowel sound in words ending in -ic.