From chickens to humans, animals think "bouba" sounds round
Ars Technica
by
John Timmer
February 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Recent research has revealed an intriguing connection between sound and shape perception, even in animals like newly hatched chickens. The bouba/kiki effect, a well-known phenomenon where people associate certain sounds with specific shapes (e.g., "bouba" is linked to roundness), has now been observed in chicks. This finding challenges previous theories about the origins of this association and suggests it may be an innate human trait tied to our unique cognitive abilities.
The bouba/kiki effect was first documented over 70 years ago when researchers noticed that people consistently linked made-up words like "bouba" with rounded shapes, while others like "kiki" were associated with spiky ones. Early explanations suggested it might relate to language or cultural influences, but experiments across diverse languages and alphabets revealed it’s a universal human tendency. Infants as young as four months old also show this bias, even before they learn to speak or read, further hinting at an innate cognitive preference.
Attempts to replicate the effect in other primates have failed, leading some scientists to speculate that this phenomenon is unique to humans and tied to our advanced language capabilities. The discovery that chickens exhibit similar associations adds a new layer of complexity, suggesting that sound-shape perception may be evolutionarily conserved across species but uniquely expressed in humans.
For tech and science enthusiasts, this research offers insights into the origins of human cognition and language processing. It challenges traditional theories about how we learn and categorize sensory experiences, while also raising questions about animal intelligence and perception. By understanding these fundamental cognitive biases, scientists may gain new tools for designing AI systems that better mimic or integrate human-like sensory processing.
Ultimately, the bouba/kiki effect highlights a fascinating intersection of sound, shape, and cognition. Its presence in both humans and animals underscores the deep-rooted nature of this association, offering fresh perspectives on how we process information and interact with the world around us.
Verticals
techscience
Originally published on Ars Technica on 2/19/2026