accent
|ac-cent|
🇺🇸
/ˈæksɛnt/
🇬🇧
/ˈæksənt/
pronunciation emphasis
Etymology
'accent' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'accentus,' where 'ad-' meant 'to' and 'cantus' meant 'song.'
'accentus' transformed into the Old French word 'accent,' and eventually became the modern English word 'accent' through Middle English.
Initially, it meant 'a song or tone,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'pronunciation or emphasis.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a distinctive way of pronouncing a language, especially one associated with a particular country, area, or social class.
She spoke with a French accent.
Synonyms
Noun 2
an emphasis on a particular part of something, usually to make it stand out.
The room was decorated with accents of red.
Synonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:39