Is a phonetic symbol that corresponds to the vowel sound in words like "dress", "neck", "pet" and "belt". 

“Short e” in combinations

Remember we saw how the ea diphthong makes a long "E" sound (ɪə), well, not in this few exceptions. For this ones we pronounce them with the short "E" sound

"ea":

head

When it is cold I always wear a hat on my head. *

dead

The dead are buried in a cemetery.

dreadpavor

I dread my next exam.

tread

Don't tread on my clean floor.

spread

Spread the bread with peanut butter.

thread

Thread can be made of cotton or nylon.

deaf

The baby was born blind and deaf.

death

His death caused terrible grief.

breath

Take a breath of fresh air.

health

Fruit juice is good for your health.

stealthsigilo

The enemy used stealth tactics to approach their target.

meant

I meant to call you but I forgot.

sweat

Jogging fast can make you sweat.

threat

The defeated army no longer poses a threat.

wealthy

The wealthy businessman 

Note that "ea" sounds /e/ in many exceptions such as head pearl, or ready. (they sound like a short "E".)