consonantly

“Consonantly” is a formal, relatively uncommon adverb meaning “in a manner characterized by consonants” or “with consonant sounds.” It is used especially in discussions of pronunciation, phonetics, poetry, and music to describe the way consonants are articulated or recur. For example, a writer might describe repeated consonants in a line as creating a forceful, rhythmic quality. The word should not be confused with “constantly,” which means continuously or without interruption; despite their similar spelling and sound, the terms have unrelated meanings. “Consonantly” is especially useful when the focus is not simply the presence of consonants but the manner or pattern in which they occur. Because it is specialized and uncommon in everyday speech, writers should use it deliberately, preferring the plainer “with consonants” or “in a consonant manner” when those are sufficient. Its formation is transparent: it combines “consonant” with the suffix “-ly.”

In a manner involving or characterized by consonants; with consonant sounds.

Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.

Where does consonantly come from?

The English adverb was formed from “consonant” plus the adverb-forming suffix “-ly.” “Consonant” comes through Latin from consonāre, meaning “to sound together,” with consonāns meaning “sounding together” or “agreeing in sound.” Related English words including “consonance,” “consonate,” and “consonantal” continue the same Latin root.

How consonantly is actually used

This is a formal, relatively uncommon adverb used chiefly in discussions of pronunciation, phonetics, poetry, and music. It is easily confused with constantly, but it has no connection to that word's meaning of continuity.

Easily confused with consonantly

What's another word for consonantly?

Rhymes with consonantly