low (adj.)

One of the features of sound set up by Chomsky and Halle in their DISTINCTIVE FEATURE theory of PHONOLOGY, to handle variations in PLACE OF ARTICULATION (CAVITY features). Low sounds are a type of TONGUE-BODY feature, and defined ARTICULATORILY, as those produced by lowering the TONGUE to below the level it holds in neutral position; OPEN VOWELS and the GLOTTAL FRICATIVES are [+low]. Its opposite is non-low [−low] or HIGH, referring to sounds produced without any such lowering; it thus covers MID and CLOSE vowels, and most CONSONANTS.

Low describes the less formal variety in DIGLOSSIA; opposed to ‘high’.