sibilant
UK: ˈsɪbɪlənt | US: ˈsɪbɪlənt
adj. making or characterized by a hissing sound
n. a speech sound or letter that produces a hissing effect (e.g., "s," "z," "sh")
The word "sibilant" originates from the Latin sibilare (to hiss or whistle), derived from sibilus (a hissing sound). The suffix "-ant" (from Latin -antem) forms adjectives indicating a quality or action. The term evolved in English to describe sounds or speech characterized by a sharp, hissing quality, reflecting its Latin roots in auditory imagery.
The snake's sibilant warning made her freeze.
English "s" and "sh" are sibilant consonants.
The rustling leaves created a faint, sibilant whisper.
His sibilant speech was difficult to understand over the phone.
The teakettle emitted a sibilant sound as it boiled.