Orthoepy

Part of speech: noun

Pronunciation: /ˈɔː.θəʊˌiː.pi/

Definitions

1. The branch of linguistics that deals with the correct pronunciation of words encompasses the analysis of accepted speech forms and standard articulations within a language's norm
2. This field examines proper word vocalization, focusing on phonetic accuracy and established pronunciation standards in linguistics
3. The study of pronunciation norms within a language focuses on how words are articulated correctly and the conventions of speech required for standard communication

Etymology: "Orthoepy" is built from three Ancient Greek pieces: "orthos," meaning correct, "epos," meaning word, and the suffix "-ia," which turns a quality into a noun. Put together, the Greek "orthoepeia" meant something like correct speaking, the careful handling of words in the mouth. The English term is the same compound, passed on through Latin "orthoepia," which kept the Greek structure largely intact. The pieces are worth noticing because "epos" is the same root that gives English "epic," from the Greek word for a poem or spoken narrative. An epic was originally a word-song, so the root has always carried the sense of speech and story. "Orthoepy" narrows that broad idea to one concern: getting the sounds of words right.