A PLACE FOR LATERAL IN THE FEATURE GEOMETRY

Phonological models of feature geometry suggest that the internal stru cture of segments is highly articulated. Distinctive features are orga nized hierarchically within the segment, and this hierarchical organiz ation is relatively stable across and within languages. Much recent wo rk has been devoted to determining the precise location of place of ar ticulation features within the hierarchy. In this study, the distincti ve feature [lateral] is the focus of investigation. Though [lateral] i s often considered a manner feature, it is usually associated with cor onal articulations. By examining the behaviour of coronal and velar la terals in phonological rules and constraints, evidence emerges that [l ateral] is a terminal feature of the coronal node within the feature t ree.