A PLACE FOR LATERAL IN THE FEATURE GEOMETRY

Phonological models of feature geometry suggest that the internal structure of segments is highly articulated. Distinctive features are organized hierarchically within the segment, and this hierarchical organization is relatively stable across and within languages. Much recent work has been devoted to determining the precise location of place of articulation features within the hierarchy. In this study, the distinctive feature [lateral] is the focus of investigation. Though [lateral] is often considered a manner feature, it is usually associated with coronal articulations. By examining the behaviour of coronal and velar laterals in phonological rules and constraints, evidence emerges that [lateral] is a terminal feature of the coronal node within the feature tree.