Think sombreness, sleepiness, sensuality, and closeness. Writers also sometimes use sibilance to give their writing form and structure. As with assonance

, consonance, and alliteration, sibilance adds rhythm and musicality to a piece of text by suggesting which syllables a reader should emphasize.

What can sibilance connote?

Sibilance is a literary device in which consonant sounds are stressed. These are primarily “s” and “th” sounds. These consonants specifically push air through the lips and make use of the tongue.

What effect does the S sound have?

Create Mood or Tone

For example, repetition of the “s” sound often suggests a snake-like quality, implying slyness and danger. Softer sounds like “h” or “l” may create a more introspective or romantic mood or tone.