define vowel/
In phonetics, a vowel is a sound in spoken language, with two complementary definitions. In the phonetic definition, a vowel is a sound pronounced with an open vocal tract, so that the tongue does not touch the lips, teeth, or roof of the mouth, such as the English ah /ÉË/ or oh /oÊ/. There is no build-up of air pressure at any point above the glottis.