Sibilant

Adjective describing a sound characterized by a hissing or hushing quality, often produced by the formation of a sustained or prolonged fricative noise in speech. Sibilants can be conveyed through certain consonants, particularly 's', 'sh', 'z', and 'zh', which create a particular acoustic effect that can be pronounced clearly or softly, depending on context.

Sibilant meaning with examples

• The teacher's voice was notably sibilant, making it easy for her students to discern her instructions over the bustling classroom noise. Her articulation of 's' and 'sh' sounds had a way of drawing attention, emphasizing their importance and ensuring that every student understood the tasks ahead.
• In the hushed tones of the library, her sibilant whispers fluttered through the rows of ancient books, creating an atmosphere of suspense as she shared the latest gossip about a fellow student. Each hissing syllable seemed to carry extra weight, enhancing her narrative’s allure and intrigue.
• The composer utilized various instruments to create a sibilant soundscape that mimicked the gentle rustling of leaves in the wind. The ethereal quality of the gentle hisses added a layer of texture to the piece, evoking imagery of nature and serenity in the minds of listeners.
• During the performance, the actor delivered his lines with a sibilant flair, particularly emphasizing the 's' sounds to convey both charm and menace. This clever use of sibilance not only captivated the audience but also infused his character with an unpredictable and enticing dynamic.
• As the cat slinked silently through the tall grass, its sibilant purr created an eerie echo that heightened the tension for the unsuspecting prey nearby. The sound reverberated softly, leaving a lingering sense of danger between predator and prey, perfectly illustrating nature's relentless cycle.