Synaeresis (Noun)
Meaning 1
The contraction of two vowels into a diphthong.
Classification
Nouns denoting natural processes.
Examples
- The word "ai" in the phrase "maiden" is an example of synaeresis, where the vowels "a" and "i" contract into a single diphthong sound.
- In ancient Greek poetry, synaeresis was often used to maintain meter and rhythm by contracting adjacent vowels into a single sound.
- The contraction of the vowels "e" and "i" in the word "vein" is an instance of synaeresis, resulting in a distinct diphthong sound.
- Synaeresis occurs in the word "neighbour", where the vowels "e" and "i" merge into a single diphthong sound.
- In phonetics, synaeresis is the process by which two adjacent vowels in a word contract into a single diphthong sound, changing the pronunciation of the word.
Synonyms
Hypernyms
Meaning 2
The separation of liquid from a gel that is caused by contraction (as in cheese making).
Classification
Nouns denoting natural processes.
Examples
- The cheesemaker carefully monitored the synaeresis of the curd to ensure the right amount of whey was released.
- Synaeresis is an important step in the cheese-making process, as it affects the final texture and flavor of the cheese.
- The scientist studied the effects of temperature and pH on synaeresis in various types of cheese.
- During the aging process, the cheese underwent significant synaeresis, resulting in a dry and crumbly texture.
- The cheesemaker's goal was to control the synaeresis of the curd to produce a cheese with the perfect balance of moisture and flavor.