English Homophone Phonetics

English draws on ancient linguistic roots to form the language that we speak today. This diversity has allowed a rich complexity to grow and morph over the centuries as our language has developed. 

The wide range of English homophones reflects this rich tradition. With only twenty-six letters, we have developed over 52 unique sounds. The "a's" themselves have at least five different pronunciations. And lexicographers have been intrigued by them for over four hundred years.