Definition & Meaning of "vowel"

What is a "vowel"?

A vowel is a speech sound produced with an open vocal tract, allowing air to flow freely without significant obstruction. Vowels are typically characterized by their resonance and can be voiced or voiceless, although most vowels in English are voiced. In the English alphabet, the letters "a," "e," "i," "o," and "u" represent vowel sounds, and "y" can also function as a vowel in certain contexts. Vowels are essential for forming syllables and words, and they play a key role in determining the pronunciation and meaning of words in a language.