Definition
A consonant is a sound made by a partial or complete closure of the vocal tract.
Discussion
A consonant is produced by an interaction between a passive articulator and an active articulator. The active articulator is brought into contact with or in close proximity to the passive articulator.
Here are the two parameters for identifying consonants:
- manner of articulation
- place of articulation
The production of consonants can be modified. For more information, see consonant modification.