aphesis

noun aph·e·sis \ˈa-fə-səs\

plural aph·e·ses\-ˌsēz\

Definition of APHESIS

: aphaeresis consisting of the loss of a short unaccented vowel (as in lone for alone)

— aphet·ic \ə-ˈfe-tik\ adjective

— aphet·i·cal·ly \-ti-k(ə-)lē\ adverb

New Latin, from Greek, release, from aphienai to let go, from apo- + hienai to send — more at jet

First Known Use: 1880

Next Word in the Dictionary: aphetaPrevious Word in the Dictionary: apheresisAll Words Near: aphesis

What made you want to look up aphesis? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

Put-downs with flair

How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.

Test your vocab with our fun, fast game

Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears