Auslaut

/ˈaʊsˌlaʊt/ noun

Definition

In linguistics, the final sound or sound sequence at the end of a word.

Etymology

German 'Auslaut,' from 'aus-' (out) + 'Laut' (sound). Coined in phonological studies to describe word-final position, parallel to 'Anlaut' (initial sound) and 'Inlaut' (medial sound).

Kelly Says

English speakers don't have a snappy word for 'final sound of a word,' so linguists borrowed the German term—it's a perfect example of how specialized fields adopt whole concepts from other languages when English just doesn't have the tool.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.