How to pronounce backstab
Say it like BAK-stab. Backstab has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (BAK).
Click the play button next to American or British to hear how to pronounce backstab. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
- BAK
- stab
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Backstab pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- BAKSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "a" in cat.
- stabGive this part a little weight. The vowel is the "a" in cat.
American vs British pronunciation of backstab
American and British speakers say backstab in essentially the same way: /ˈbækˌstæb/ in the US and /ˈbækˌstæb/ in the UK.
British respelling: BAK-stab.
What does backstab mean?
- To attack someone (especially verbally) unfairly in a deceitful, underhand, or treacherous manner, especially when they're not present in the place or situation that it happens.
- An act of backstabbing.
Where does backstab come from?
From back + stab.
Questions about saying backstab
How do you pronounce backstab?
Say BAK-stab. The American pronunciation is /ˈbækˌstæb/. In British English it is /ˈbækˌstæb/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in backstab?
Backstab has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (BAK). Broken into parts: BAK · stab.
Do Americans and Brits say backstab the same way?
Almost exactly. The American form is /ˈbækˌstæb/ and the British form is /ˈbækˌstæb/, so you can use either pronunciation with any listener.