In English, the letter “w” is typically considered a consonant, but there are some instances where it can act as a vowel. Here are a few examples:

- “Cwm”: This is a Welsh word that means “valley” and is pronounced “koom.” The “w” in this word is considered a vowel because it functions as a short “u” sound.
- “Crwth”: This is another Welsh word that refers to a type of stringed instrument. It is pronounced “krooth,” and the “w” functions as a vowel, making the “u” sound.
- “Brylcreem”: This is a brand of men’s hair styling product. The “w” in this word is pronounced as a vowel, making the “e” sound at the end of the word long.
- “Draw”: In some dialects, the word “draw” can be pronounced with the “w” acting as a vowel, making the “a” sound like “ah.” This pronunciation is most commonly heard in parts of the American South.
- “Glow”: Similarly, in some dialects, the word “glow” can be pronounced with the “w” acting as a vowel, making the “o” sound like “oh.” This pronunciation is also most commonly heard in the American South.
- “How”: In some dialects, the word “how” can be pronounced with the “w” acting as a vowel, making the “o” sound like “oh.” This is another example of a Southern American dialectical pronunciation.
- “Squawk”: In this word, the “w” is pronounced as a vowel, making the “a” sound like “aw.”
- “Tweak”: In this word, the “w” is pronounced as a vowel, making the “e” sound like “ee.”
It’s important to note that these instances are exceptions to the general rule that “w” is a consonant in English. In most cases, “w” functions as a consonant and represents a “wuh” sound. However, in certain situations and dialects, it can act as a vowel and represent a different sound.
What word uses w as a vowel?