How to pronounce circumcise
Say it like SUR-kum-syze. Circumcise has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (SUR).
- SUR
- kum
- syze
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Circumcise 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.
- kumKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
- syzeGive this part a little weight. The vowel is the "i" in time.
American vs British pronunciation of circumcise
- American English uses 3 syllables and British English 4.
- Americans pronounce the r after a vowel; most British speakers leave it silent and lengthen the vowel instead.
British respelling: SUH-kum-suh-iz.
What does circumcise mean?
- To surgically remove the clitoris (clitoridectomy), clitoral hood, or labia.
- To trim off the portion of the barrel liner of a large-caliber naval gun that protrudes from the end of the barrel as a result of the liner slowly stretching from prolonged fire.
Where does circumcise come from?
From Middle English circumcisen, from Old French circumciser (modern French circoncire) and its etymon Latin circumcīsus, the past participle of circumcīdō (“cut around”), from circum (“about, around; through”) + caedō (“cut, hew”).
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Questions about saying circumcise
How do you pronounce circumcise?
Say SUR-kum-syze. The American pronunciation is /ˈsɝkəmˌsaɪz/. In British English it is /ˈsəkəmsʌɪz/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in circumcise?
Circumcise has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (SUR). Broken into parts: SUR · kum · syze.
Is circumcise pronounced differently in British English?
Yes. American English uses 3 syllables and British English 4. The British form is /ˈsəkəmsʌɪz/ (SUH-kum-suh-iz).