How to pronounce cavalier
Say it like KAV-uh-leer. Cavalier has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (KAV).
Click the play button next to American or British to hear how to pronounce cavalier. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
- KAV
- uh
- leer
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Cavalier pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- KAVSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "a" in cat.
- uhKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
- leerKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "ee" in see.
American vs British pronunciation of cavalier
- Americans pronounce the r after a vowel; most British speakers leave it silent and lengthen the vowel instead.
British respelling: KAV-uh-leer.
Other ways to say cavalier
Cavalier also has this pronunciation, usually with a different meaning or use:
- kav-uh-LEER /ˌkævəˈlɪr/
What does cavalier mean?
- A defensive work rising from a bastion, etc., and overlooking the surrounding area.
- Lacking the proper care or concern for something important, reckless, rash, high-handed.
- High-spirited.
- Supercilious.
- Of a man: to act in a gallant and dashing manner toward (women).
Where does cavalier come from?
First appears c. 1562 in a translation by Peter Whitehorne.
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Opposite meaning
Questions about saying cavalier
How do you pronounce cavalier?
Say KAV-uh-leer. The American pronunciation is /ˈkævəlir/. In British English it is /ˈkævəlɪə/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in cavalier?
Cavalier has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (KAV). Broken into parts: KAV · uh · leer.
Is cavalier 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 /ˈkævəlɪə/ (KAV-uh-leer).