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Wavelength The spatial distance between corresponding points in consecutive periods of a periodic waveform. The usual symbol for wavelength is λ. Wavelength may be calculated using λ = v/f
where λ = the wavelength in m, v = the velocity of propagation of the wave in m/s, f = the frequency of the wave in Hz.
Weak cluster See syllable weight.
Weak form In most English accents, some function words (prepositions, auxiliary verbs, pronouns, conjunctions) have two or more different pronunciations. The weak form is that typically used when the word is unstressed. For example, the weak form of was is [wəz]. See also strong form.
Weak syllable deletion A child phonology process. Unstressed word-initial syllables are deleted. An example: [ˈnɑːnə] for banana.
Wedge A name for the phonetic symbol [ʌ].
Whisper A type of phonation which excites the resonances of the vocal tract by producing turbulent airflow in the larynx. Whispered speech has an aperiodic waveform and, as it does not involve vocal fold vibration, is voiceless throughout. There are various types of whisper, one of which, a loud "stage" whisper, involves closing the vocal folds tightly along most of their length, but leaving a small triangular opening between the arytenoid cartilages, through which air is forced rapidly.
Whistle fricative A fricative type found in the Zimbabwean language Shona. There is no complete consensus on the articulation of these sounds, but most investigators agree that they are double articulations with strictures at the lips and at the alveolar ridge.
White noise A sound with a spectrum that has equal intensity components at all audible frequencies.
Wide-band See spectrogram.
Word boundary The beginning or end of a word. Usually symbolised # or (## in some treatments).
Word group See group.
Word group boundary The beginning or end of a group of words which constitute a complete, well-formed intonation pattern. The symbols | and || are used to represent a word group boundary. The latter stands for a boundary with an obligatory accompanying pause.