Which term denotes the rhythm, stress, and intonation in speech?

The term that denotes the rhythm, stress, and intonation in speech is prosody. Prosody is essential in effective communication as it contributes to the meaning and emotional tone of spoken language. It encompasses various vocal elements—such as the timing of speech (rhythm), the emphasis placed on certain syllables or words (stress), and the variation in voice pitch over a phrase (intonation). Together, these aspects help convey nuances in meaning, indicate questions or statements, and express emotions, making prosody a critical component of speech and communication.

The other terms do not accurately capture all these elements. "Form" typically refers to the structural aspects of speech sounds or language, while "language" is a broader term that encompasses all aspects of human communication systems. "Pitch" specifically relates to the highness or lowness of a sound but does not encompass the full range of rhythmic and stress patterns inherent in prosody.