lisp
UK[lɪsp]US[lɪsp]
v
to speak with a speech defect in which 's' and 'z' sounds are pronounced like 'th'.
n
a speech defect or manner of speaking characterized by the pronunciation of 's' and 'z' sounds as 'th'.
Etymology
the word 'lisp' has a direct, onomatopoeic quality, originating from the old english verb 'wlispian'. it is believed to be rooted in a protogermanic base that imitated the sound or impression of imperfect speech, particularly the sibilant 's' sound being softened or altered. this imitative origin is common for words describing speech impediments or distinctive sounds. over time, the initial 'w' sound was dropped, and the word evolved into the modern 'lisp', retaining its specific meaning for a speech defect involving sibilants.
Analysis
the word 'lisp' is an english simplex word. it is of old english origin, from the verb 'wlispian', meaning 'to lisp'. its ultimate origin is imitative, from a protogermanic base conveying the idea of a feeble or imperfect articulation.
Examples
he has a slight lisp that becomes more noticeable when he is tired.
some actors learn to lisp convincingly for certain roles.
the child's charming lisp made her mispronunciation of "sister" sound like "thither".