Sound Shift
Sound Shift refers to the gradual change in pronunciation of words over time within a language. This phenomenon can occur due to various factors, including social influences, geographical separation, and the natural evolution of language. Sound shifts can lead to differences in dialects and accents, making it easier to identify regional variations.
One well-known example of a sound shift is the Great Vowel Shift, which took place in England between the 15th and 18th centuries. This significant change altered the pronunciation of long vowels, contributing to the distinct sounds of modern English compared to its earlier forms.