Sibilance meaning

Sibilance refers to the repetition of hissing sounds, specifically the "s" and "sh" sounds, in a piece of writing or speech.


Sibilance definitions

Word backwards ecnalibis
Part of speech The word "sibilance" is a noun.
Syllabic division Si-bi-lance
Plural The plural of the word sibilance is sibilances.
Total letters 9
Vogais (3) i,a,e
Consonants (5) s,b,l,n,c

When it comes to adding a touch of musicality and lyrical quality to writing, sibilance plays a key role. Sibilance refers to a stylistic device where a hissing sound is created by repeating the "s" sound in words within close proximity. This technique is often used in poetry, prose, and song lyrics to evoke a sense of flow, rhythm, and attention-grabbing effect.

Importance of Sibilance

Sibilance is a powerful tool that can enhance the overall impact of a piece of writing. By creating a musical quality, it captures the reader's attention and adds a unique element to the text. The repetitive "s" sound can add a soothing or sharp effect, depending on the context in which it is used.

Examples of Sibilance

One famous example of sibilance can be found in Shakespeare's sonnet 18: "Shall I compare thee to a summer's day?". The repetition of the "s" sound in "shall", "thee", "summer's", and "days" creates a melodic quality that lingers in the reader's ears.

Another example can be seen in the opening lines of Edgar Allan Poe's "The Raven": "Once upon a midnight dreary, while I pondered, weak and weary". The repeated "r" and "e" sounds create a haunting and ominous atmosphere that sets the tone for the rest of the poem.

The Effect of Sibilance

When used effectively, sibilance can create a sense of unity and cohesion in a piece of writing. It can also evoke emotions such as calmness, suspense, or tension, depending on the intention of the author. The musical quality of sibilance adds depth and richness to the text, making it more engaging for the reader.

Overall, sibilance is a versatile tool that can greatly enhance the impact of writing. Whether used in poetry, prose, or song lyrics, it adds a layer of complexity and artistry that elevates the text to a new level. By paying attention to the sounds of words and utilizing sibilance effectively, writers can create a more compelling and memorable piece of writing.


Sibilance Examples

  1. The sibilance of the snake's hiss sent shivers down her spine.
  2. The singer's voice was filled with sibilance as she sang the soothing lullaby.
  3. The wind whispered through the trees with a sibilant sound.
  4. The kettle began to simmer with a sibilant noise as it heated up.
  5. The villain's sinister laugh was filled with sibilance, adding to his menacing aura.
  6. The rain fell in a sibilant patter on the roof, creating a calming ambiance.
  7. The audience could hear the sibilant sound of the waves crashing against the shore in the background of the play.
  8. The cat let out a sibilant meow as it rubbed against its owner's leg.
  9. The sword sliced through the air with a sibilant swoosh before striking its target.
  10. The fireplace crackled with a sibilant sound as the logs burned brightly.


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  • Updated 19/05/2024 - 21:50:01