lenis
/ˈliːnɪs/Definitions
1. noun
A soft or unstressed sound, especially a vowel sound, in speech or linguistics.
“The linguist studied the lenis sounds in the ancient language.”
2. adjective
Characterized by or producing soft or unstressed sounds.
“The lenis pronunciation of the word was noticeable to the non-native speaker.”
3. adjective
Characterized by or producing soft sounds, used especially of consonants in speech or linguistics.
“The lenis consonants in the language were distinctive to its speakers.”