stridency deletion
Pronunciation: STRY-den-see dih-LEE-shun
A phonological process involving the omission of strident sounds, particularly fricatives and affricates, in children's speech.
Full Definition
Stridency deletion is a phonological simplification pattern where children systematically omit or delete strident consonants, which include fricatives (/f/, /v/, /s/, /z/, /ʃ/, /ʒ/) and affricates (/tʃ/, /dʒ/). This process typically resolves by age 6, and persistent stridency deletion may indicate a phonological disorder requiring intervention. Treatment often focuses on establishing auditory discrimination and production of strident versus non-strident sound contrasts.
Usage
Usage note: Also called strident deletion. Part of normal phonological development but concerning if persistent beyond age 6.
In Context
- "The phonological analysis revealed persistent stridency deletion affecting speech intelligibility." — Speech sound assessment report
- "Intervention targeted stridency deletion through auditory bombardment and production practice." — Treatment planning documentation