How to pronounce alternator
Say it like AWL-ter-nay-ter. Alternator has four syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (AWL).
Click the play button next to American or British to hear how to pronounce alternator. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
- AWL
- ter
- nay
- ter
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Alternator pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- AWLSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "aw" in law.
- terKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "er" in butter.
- nayGive this part a little weight. The vowel is the "ay" in day.
- terKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "er" in butter.
American vs British pronunciation of alternator
- Americans pronounce the r after a vowel; most British speakers leave it silent and lengthen the vowel instead.
- Americans usually soften the t in the middle into a quick d-like tap; British speakers keep a crisp t.
British respelling: AWL-tuh-nay-tuh.
What does alternator mean?
- An electric generator which produces alternating current through mechanical means.
Where does alternator come from?
From alternate + -or.
Questions about saying alternator
How do you pronounce alternator?
Say AWL-ter-nay-ter. The American pronunciation is /ˈɔltɚˌneɪtɚ/. In British English it is /ˈɔːltəˌneɪtə/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in alternator?
Alternator has four syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (AWL). Broken into parts: AWL · ter · nay · ter.
Is alternator pronounced differently in British English?
Yes. Americans pronounce the r after a vowel; most British speakers leave it silent and lengthen the vowel instead. The British form is /ˈɔːltəˌneɪtə/ (AWL-tuh-nay-tuh).