Articulation – Definition & Meaning

Articulation is a term that is commonly used in various fields, including linguistics, music, and anatomy. The word articulation is derived from the Latin word “articulatio,” which means “a joint.” In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of articulation and its significance in different contexts.

Definitions

Articulation can be defined as the act of producing clear and distinct speech sounds or the movement of joints in the body. In linguistics, articulation refers to the physical process of producing speech sounds, where the vocal cords, tongue, and lips work together to create specific sounds. In music, articulation refers to the way a musician plays or sings a note, such as a staccato, legato, or accent.

Origin

The word articulation comes from the Latin word “articulatio,” which means “a joint.” The term was first used in the 16th century to describe the movement of joints in the body. Later, it was adopted in linguistics and music to describe the production of speech sounds and the performance of music notes.

Meaning in different dictionaries

According to the Oxford English Dictionary, articulation is “the formation of clear and distinct sounds in speech.” Merriam-Webster defines articulation as “the act or manner of producing speech sounds.” In music, articulation is defined as “the way a musician plays or sings a note.”

Associations

Articulation is closely associated with clear and effective communication. It is essential for individuals to articulate their thoughts and ideas clearly to be understood by others. In music, articulation is crucial for conveying the intended expression and emotion of a piece.

Synonyms

Some synonyms of articulation include enunciation, pronunciation, diction, expression, phrasing, and delivery.

Antonyms

The antonyms of articulation include mumbling, slurring, garbling, stuttering, and stumbling.

The same root words

Some words that share the same root as articulation include articulate, articulately, articulator, and articulatory.

Example Sentences

1. His articulation was so clear that everyone in the audience could understand him.
2. The musician’s articulation of the notes was flawless.
3. The doctor examined the patient’s articulation to assess any joint problems.
4. The teacher emphasized the importance of articulation in public speaking.
5. The singer’s articulation of the lyrics conveyed the emotion of the song.