article
an
The form of a used before a vowel sound.
She places an apple beside the sandwich in her lunchbox.
Etymology
The indefinite article developed from the word for “one.” It introduces a single, unspecified member of a class, retaining its fuller form before a vowel sound.
More examples
- We waited for an hour before the doors opened.
- He has an unusual solution to the problem.
- The guide points out an old bridge beyond the trees.
Similar words
- a
- Used before a consonant sound rather than a vowel sound.