a. and sb. [f. L. fauc-ēs (see next) + -AL.] A. adj. Of or pertaining to the fauces or throat. In phonology applied chiefly to certain deep guttural sounds, esp. in the Semitic languages.
1864. in Webster.
1876. T. Douse, Grimm’s Law, Appendix A, 179. The sound of l also (which was originally in most cases derived from r) exhibits with us a similar influence, although in much fewer examples—its more usual affinity being for the faucal â.
1883. I. Taylor, Alphabet., I. III. § 3. 180. The ‘faucal breaths’ as well as the linguals, are characteristic of the Semitic languages.
1884. Syd. Soc. Lex., Faucal, relating to, or arising in connection with, the Fauces.
B. sb. A faucal sound.
1883. I. Taylor, Alphabet., I. III. §3. 180. ‘Ayin is the most difficult of the faucals. Ibid., I. III. § 3. 181. Cheth … a ‘fricative faucal,’ was a strongly marked continuous guttural sound produced at the back of the palate.
