Consonance Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/kɑsˈnæns/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A similarity in the sound of two or more words, especially at the end of a line in poetry, used to create a musical or harmonious effect.

Examples

• The poet used consonance in the line “silk silk, milk milk” to create a soothing effect.
• Consonance can add depth and rhythm to a poem’s musicality.
• The writer employed consonance in the phrase “say say, sway sway” to underscore the emotional appeal.
• Consonance is often used in rap music to create a catchy and memorable flow.
• The musician exploited consonance in the refrain “ride ride, slide slide” to craft a haunting melody.

Synonyms

• Illiteration

Antonyms

• Dissonance

Etymology

The term “consonance” comes from the Latin “consonare,” meaning “to sound together.” It has been used in literature and poetry since the 15th century to describe the repetition of similar sounds.

Usage Notes

Consonance is often used in poetry and music to create a sense of continuity and unity. It can also be used in linguistic studies to describe phonological patterns.

Cultural References

Consonance has been used in various forms of art and literature, including poetry, music, and film. For example, the poet Emily Dickinson often employed consonance in her works to create a musical quality.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• “In harmony with each other”

Related Words or Phrases

• Potential
• Rhyme
• Meter

Collocations

• “Consonance in music”
• “Consonance in poetry”

Frequency of Use

Consonance is a relatively common term in literary and linguistic circles, but it is not as widely used as other poetic devices.

Common Misspellings

• Consanace
• Consonence