Epenthesize

/ɛpɛnˈθɛsaɪz/ verb

Definition

To insert an extra sound or letter into a word, either intentionally in linguistic analysis or naturally during speech.

Etymology

From 'epenthesis' plus the verb-forming suffix '-ize,' creating a verb form meaning 'to perform epenthesis' or 'to insert sounds.'

Kelly Says

When you say 'window' as 'winduhhh' with an extra vowel sound, you're epenthasizing—it's something millions of people do every day without realizing it!

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