In literature, what is meant by onomatopoeia?

Onomatopoeia refers to the use of words that phonetically mimic or resemble the sound that they describe. This literary device effectively conveys sensory experiences by allowing readers to hear the sounds through the words themselves. Examples include words like "buzz," "clang," and "bang," which evoke the actual sounds associated with their meanings. Such words can enhance the auditory imagery of a piece of literature, making the text more engaging and immersive for readers. This is particularly useful in poetry and children's literature, where sound patterns contribute significantly to the overall experience of the language.