How to pronounce circular
Say it like SUR-kyuh-ler. Circular has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (SUR).
- SUR
- kyuh
- ler
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Circular pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- SURSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "ur" in nurse.
- kyuhKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
- lerKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "er" in butter.
American vs British pronunciation of circular
- Americans pronounce the r after a vowel; most British speakers leave it silent and lengthen the vowel instead.
British respelling: SUR-kyuu-luh.
What does circular mean?
- Of or relating to a circle.
- In the shape of, or moving in, a circle.
- Circuitous or roundabout.
- An advertisement, directive or notice intended for mass circulation.
- A sleeveless cloak cut from a circular pattern.
- A shuttle bus with a circular route.
- To distribute circulars to or at.
- To extend in a circular direction.
Where does circular come from?
From Middle English circuler, circuleer, circulere, from Old French circulier (French circulaire), from Late Latin circularis, from Latin circulus, diminutive of circus (“ring”).
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Questions about saying circular
How do you pronounce circular?
Say SUR-kyuh-ler. The American pronunciation is /ˈsɝkjəlɚ/. In British English it is /ˈsɜːkjʊlə/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in circular?
Circular has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (SUR). Broken into parts: SUR · kyuh · ler.
Is circular 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 /ˈsɜːkjʊlə/ (SUR-kyuu-luh).