lenis

Definition

Weakly articulated, hence voiced; especially as compared to the others of a group of homorganic consonants.

Etymology

Borrowed from Latin lēnis (“soft, smooth”).

Example Sentences

• "All vowels, whether short or complex, are relatively shorter when followed by a fortis consonant and relatively longer when followed by a lenis one or, for those where this is possible, when no consonant follows (in free or unchecked syllables)."