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Filler word

Diction
Pronunciation

Understanding ARPABET Pronunciation

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The pronunciation guide uses the ARPABET phonetic system—the same system used in speech recognition and text-to-speech applications.

Vowel Examples:
AE1 = cat, bat
EH1 = bed, head
IY1 = see, me
OW1 = go, boat
UW1 = boot, do
Stress Numbers:
0 = no stress (unstressed)
1 = primary stress (loud)
2 = secondary stress (medium)
Example:
AH0 TH IY1 N AH0
= a-THEE-na (Athena)

The stressed syllable (marked with 1) is pronounced louder and clearer than others.

Quick Definition

A word used primarily for metrical or rhythmic purposes rather than semantic content

Detailed Definition
Filler word describes language used primarily for metrical or rhythmic requirements rather than semantic necessity. While potentially dismissed as padding, such words can also serve subtle functions in pacing, emphasis, or creating authentic speech patterns within verse constraints.
Example
Example in poetry:
Filler word: in oral-formulaic poetry, “indeed” or “verily” maintains meter; In hip-hop, “yo” or “check it” sets rhythmic pace; A poem using “well” or “so” to mimic natural speech; Contemporary free verse employs filler words for authenticity or hesitation; Such words serve prosodic or performative function beyond literal meaning.
Additional Notes
Word serving primarily metrical or rhythmic function with minimal semantic content. Common in folk poetry and song. Distinguished from expletive by grammatical correctness.
Also Known As
Function word Stopgap term Placeholder word Discourse Marker
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