How to pronounce compact
Say it like KAHM-pakt. Compact has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (KAHM).
- KAHM
- pakt
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Compact pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- KAHMSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "ah" in father.
- paktKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "a" in cat.
American vs British pronunciation of compact
- The short o is rounded in British English (as in "hot"), but open and unrounded in American English.
British respelling: KOM-pakt.
Other ways to say compact
Compact also has this pronunciation, usually with a different meaning or use:
- kum-PAKT /kəmˈpækt/
What does compact mean?
- An agreement or contract.
- To form an agreement or contract.
- Closely packed or densely constituted; having much material in a small volume.
- Having all necessary features fitting neatly into a small space.“a compact laptop computer”
- Brief and pithy; not verbose.“a compact discourse”
Where does compact come from?
Borrowed from Latin compactum (“agreement”).
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Opposite meaning
Questions about saying compact
How do you pronounce compact?
Say KAHM-pakt. The American pronunciation is /ˈkɑmpækt/. In British English it is /ˈkɒmpækt/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in compact?
Compact has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (KAHM). Broken into parts: KAHM · pakt.
Is compact pronounced differently in British English?
Yes. The short o is rounded in British English (as in "hot"), but open and unrounded in American English. The British form is /ˈkɒmpækt/ (KOM-pakt).