Accent

Definition

Accent is both a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to a distinctive way of pronouncing a language, often associated with a particular region, country, or social group. It can also mean an emphasis placed on a particular part of a word or phrase. As a verb, it means to emphasize or highlight something.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• Noun IPA Pronunciation: /ˈæksɛnt/
• Noun Respelling: AK-sent
• Verb IPA Pronunciation: /ækˈsɛnt/
• Verb Respelling: ak-SENT

British English

• Noun IPA Pronunciation: /ˈæksɛnt/
• Noun Respelling: AK-sent
• Verb IPA Pronunciation: /ækˈsɛnt/
• Verb Respelling: ak-SENT

The pronunciation of "accent" differs between its noun and verb forms, with the noun stressed on the first syllable and the verb stressed on the second syllable.

Etymology

The word "accent" originates from the Latin word "accentus," meaning "tone" or "song added to speech." This term combines "ad-" (to) and "cantus" (song). The word was adopted into Middle English from Old French in the 14th century, initially referring to the modulation of voice in speech.

Derivatives

• Accented (adjective)
• Accentuate (verb)
• Accentuation (noun)
• Unaccented (adjective)
• Reaccent (verb)

Synonyms

• Emphasis
• Dialect
• Stress

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "accent" is commonly used in linguistics to describe the distinct pronunciation patterns of a language, often associated with geographic or cultural origins. For example, "She has a British accent," or "The teacher placed an accent on proper pronunciation." In a musical or artistic context, it can also mean emphasis, as in, "Accent the downbeat in the rhythm."

Related Terms

• Dialect: A form of a language specific to a particular region or social group.
• Inflection: Modulation or change in pitch or tone of the voice.
• Emphasis: Special importance or stress placed on a particular word or syllable.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A distinctive way of pronouncing a language: Refers to the specific pronunciation patterns associated with certain regions, countries, or groups.
  • Example: "His French accent is very noticeable."
• An emphasis or stress on a syllable or word: Describes the prominence placed on certain sounds within words.
  • Example: "In English, the accent is often on the first syllable."

Verb

• To emphasize or highlight: Refers to the act of giving particular importance to a word, syllable, or feature.
  • Example: "The artist used bright colors to accent the painting’s focal point."