Explanation
The relative degree of sonority of sounds, which helps determine their preferred order within a syllable. In the atlas, the term is not treated in isolation: it explains the internal structure of syllables. This reveals what distinctions the form enables and how it relates to neighboring phenomena.
Example
In the word “Plan,” sonority increases from /p/ through /l/ to /a/.
Counterexample
Loudness is a physical intensity, not phonological sonority.
Distinction
Volume is a physical intensity, not phonological sonority.
Effect on thought and perception
The term draws attention to and explains the internal structure of syllables. What previously appeared to be a uniform process becomes perceptible as a structured relationship.
Resonance
Resonance arises when sonority is not merely named but experienced as a movement between form, expectation, and effect.
Cite this entry
Reich, Michael (Hrsg./ed.): „Sonority“. Atlas der Sprache, AT-088-004. ATLAS 251, data model 1.6.0. https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-088-004The address remains stable; editorial content may evolve. A verified modification date per entry is not yet available. Include your access date for precise references.