Definition: A vocal sound; specifically, a purely vocal element of speech, unmodified except by resonance; a vowel or a diphthong; a tonic element; a tonic; distinguished from a subvocal, and a nonvocal

Alright class, settle down, let’s take a look! Today we’re tackling the word “vocal,” and it’s quite a mouthful, isn't it? The dictionary gives us a lot to unpack. Let’s break it down piece by piece, like building blocks for your understanding. Essentially, "vocal" means having to do with your voice – how you sound . It’s about the actual noises we make when we speak! Let's look at those longer definitions: “A vocal sound…” That's the basic idea - it's a sound produced by our voices. “…specifically, a purely vocal element of speech…unmodified except by resonance.” Think about it like this: you’re saying “hello,” but only the sound of your voice is being heard, not a mumbled thought or an echo. Resonance just means how your voice fills up the space around you – it's what makes it rich and full! “A vowel or a diphthong…” These are special sounds in words like “ah,” “ee,” “oh,” "oi" (as in 'boy') - they’re the core sound of a syllable. “A tonic element; a tonic;” This is a little trickier, but essentially it refers to the main stressed part of a word or phrase – the most important sound! Like saying "RE-member" versus "rem-ber." “Distinguished from a subvocal, and a nonvocal.” Now this is key! Subvocal: That’s when you're silently mouthing words in your head – it's not actually out loud. It’s like a little whisper inside. Nonvocal: This refers to any sound that isn’t made by your voice - like the clatter of chalk on a board, or the rustle of paper. So, "vocal" is all about real , audible sounds coming from our voices – vowels, stresses, and pure speech! Do you have any questions? Let's discuss!

Definition: A vocal sound; specifically, a purely vocal element of speech, unmodified except by resonance; a vowel or a diphthong; a tonic element; a tonic; distinguished from a subvocal, and a nonvocal

Alright class, settle down now, let’s take a look at this word – “vocals.” It's a fascinating one, quite complex you see, Let’s break it down for you, just listen to me! The dictionary gives us clues, a helpful little guide, To understand what "vocals" truly hide. First, it’s simply a “vocal sound,” clear and bright, Like when you speak, with all your voice and might. But more than that, it's pure , you understand? Not muffled by whispers or voices unplanned. It's shaped by resonance, a lovely, echoing grace, Like how your voice fills up a quiet space. Think of vowels like “ah” and “ee,” so sweet, Or diphthongs too, a rhythmic treat! A "tonic element," that’s the core you see, The main note held, for all the world to decree. It's the "tonic" itself, the strongest part, Distinct from whispers, a quiet work of art. And lastly, it’s different from “subvocal” too, A thought you murmur, just for me and you. Also, not “non-vocal,” that’s clear as day, It's all about the sounds we hear and play! So "vocals" encompasses everything you speak, The beautiful sounds that your voice does seek. Do you have any questions about this word? Let’s discuss it together!