What does mora mean?
A mora is a unit of sound in phonology that measures the length of syllables. It is often considered a short syllable or a short unit of time in a syllable. The mora is used to analyze the rhythm and meter of speech in various languages. In linguistics, the mora is an important concept for understanding the sound structure of languages. The term mora is derived from the Greek word for 'delay' or 'slowness', reflecting its association with the length of sounds. The mora has applications in fields such as phonology, linguistics, and language teaching. It helps to explain the sound patterns and rhythm of languages.
nounA mora is a unit of sound in phonology that is used to measure the length of syllables. It is often considered a short syllable or a short unit of time in a syllable.
- A unit of sound in phonology
- A short syllable or unit of time in a syllable
"In some languages, such as Japanese, the mora is a fundamental unit of sound that determines the rhythm and meter of speech."
"The linguist carefully counted the moras in the ancient poem."
"The singer's use of mora helped to create a sense of rhythm in the song."
The plural form moras is used when referring to multiple units of sound.
"The language has several moras that contribute to its unique rhythm."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of mora
The word mora comes from the Greek word 'mora', meaning 'delay' or 'slowness'. It has been adopted into various languages, including Latin and English, to describe a unit of sound in phonology. The concept of mora has evolved over time, influenced by the study of phonology and linguistics.
Usage notes
The term mora is primarily used in phonology and linguistics. It is not commonly used in everyday conversation.