What is the definition of a short vowel?

A short vowel is a vowel sound that is pronounced quickly and with a short duration. This contrasts with long vowels which are pronounced with a longer duration and often have a different sound than their short counterparts.

Here's how to think about it:

* Short vowels are the sounds you make when you quickly and briefly say the letter's name.

* Long vowels have a more drawn-out sound, often similar to the letter's name when said in isolation.

Examples:

* Short vowels:

* a in cat

* e in bed

* i in pig

* o in hot

* u in cup

* Long vowels:

* a in cake

* e in see

* i in bike

* o in go

* u in flute

Key characteristics of short vowels:

* Short duration: They are pronounced quickly.

* Closed mouth: The mouth is often slightly closed when making a short vowel sound.

* No gliding: The sound doesn't change or glide into another sound.

It's important to note that the pronunciation of short vowels can vary slightly depending on the dialect of English being spoken. However, the general principle of a short, quick sound remains the same.