déclinants

Déclinants is a term used in linguistics to describe certain diphthongs or vowel combinations that move from a more open or higher vowel sound to a more closed or lower vowel sound within a single syllable. This contrasts with "influxion" or rising diphthongs, which move from a lower to a higher vowel sound.

Examples of declinants can be found in various languages. In English, the vowel sound in words like "buy" (/aɪ/) is often described as a declinant, starting from a more open 'a' sound and gliding towards an 'i' sound. Similarly, the vowel in "cow" (/aʊ/) can be considered a declinant, beginning with an open 'a' and moving towards a 'u' sound. The precise phonetic realization and categorization of these sounds can vary between dialects and linguistic analyses.

The study of declinants and influxion is part of phonetics and phonology, focusing on the dynamic nature of vowel sounds within the context of speech. Understanding these vowel movements is crucial for analyzing the sound systems of languages and for accurate phonetic transcription. The term itself, "déclinants," is French for "declining" or "falling," reflecting the perceived downward movement of the tongue or jaw during the articulation of these vowel sounds.