ABSTRACT
In this paper, which represents Professor Gimson's interest in historical phonology, I wish to propose an analysis of Old English short vowels before nasal consonants. I shall argue that the reduced number of vocalic contrasts before nasal consonants may be seen as an instance of neutralisation. Furthermore, I shall argue in favour of an analysis in terms of neutralisation by adducing external evidence in the shape of spelling forms. Finally, I shall propose a phonetic interpretation of the development of Old English vowels before nasal consonants. In this connection reference will be made to a number of historical sound changes — some of these from non-Germanic languages — where vowels are raised before nasals.
