Vocal Fry

Vocal fry (or "creaky voice") is a low, creaky vibration at the end of phrases. It's common in casual Californian speech, especially among younger speakers.

What it sounds like: The voice drops to a very low pitch and the vocal cords vibrate irregularly, creating a "frying" or "crackling" sound.

Where it appears:

• End of sentences: "That's so cool..." (fry on "cool")
• Casual emphasis: "I knoooow" (extended with fry)
• When the speaker is relaxed and not projecting

Note: While associated with California, vocal fry is used across the US. It's a register feature, not a pronunciation error.