Sound Symbolism

Sound symbolism is the idea that specific sounds in language can carry meaning or suggest certain qualities. For instance, words that sound similar often evoke similar ideas or feelings across different languages; for example, words related to smallness often contain 'i' or 'e' sounds (like "tiny" or "petite"). This phenomenon suggests a connection between sound and meaning, influencing how we perceive and understand language. It highlights how the phonetic aspects of words can enhance their meanings, creating a deeper link between sound and the concepts they represent.