Assonance
/ˈæs.ə.nəns/noun
The repetition of vowel sounds in nearby words to create rhythm or harmony.
Did you know?The term 'assonance' stems from the idea of creating resonance, echoing the ancient practice of using sound for incantations and rituals.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
assonantia
“the quality of having similar sounds, particularly vowels.”
Medieval Latin
Medieval Latin
assonare
“to sound together, echo.”
Old French
Old French
assonance
“similarity of sound.”
14th Century
Middle English
assonance
“the correspondence of vowel sounds in poetry.”
Modern English
English
assonance
“the repetition of vowel sounds in closely placed words.”