What term refers to words that mimic the sounds they describe?

The term that refers to words that mimic the sounds they describe is onomatopoeia. This literary device is characterized by the formation of a word that phonetically imitates, resembles, or suggests the sound that it describes. Examples of onomatopoeia include words like "buzz" for the sound bees make, "sizzle" for the sound of something frying, and "clang" for the sound of metal striking metal.

This phenomenon enriches language by enhancing the auditory imagery of a text, allowing readers to engage more deeply with the sounds and actions taking place within the narrative. It creates a vivid sensory experience that can help to set the mood or emphasize details in poetry and prose.