approximant
nounUS /əˈpɹɑksəmənt/ · UK /əˈpɹɒksɪmənt/
Etymology From Latin approximāns. In the phonetics sense first used by Peter Ladefoged, the mathematical concept is attributed to Paul Halmos.
1
Human sciences, Linguistics, Phonetics, Phonology, Sciences A consonant sound made by slightly narrowing the vocal tract, while still allowing a smooth flow of air. Liquids and glides are approximants.
2
Mathematics, Sciences An approximation to the solution of a function, series, etc.
- Derived terms
- Padé approximant
- Related terms
- consonant