The Universal Atlas of Phonetic Evolution
Back to Matrix [k] → [∅] Edit this Data

[∅]→[k]Certainty: 5/5Commonality: 3/5

Empty sound / Zero to Voiceless velar plosive

Epenthesis of [k] typically occurs as excrescence between a velar nasal [ŋ] and a following dental or alveolar fricative.

Phonetic Effects

Excrescence, Epenthesis

Language Examples

[leŋθ]→[leŋkθ]— Excrescent [k] inserted between velar nasal [ŋ] and dental fricative [θ] in 'length'; reflects incomplete closure overlap during articulation.
[streŋθ]→[streŋkθ]— Same process in 'strength'; common in many English dialects.

Related Transformations

More Germanic Shifts

Sources & References

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