How to pronounce compel
Say it like kum-PEL. Compel has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the second one (PEL).
- kum
- PEL
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Compel pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- kumKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
- PELSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "e" in bed.
American vs British pronunciation of compel
American and British speakers say compel in essentially the same way: /kəmˈpɛl/ in the US and /kəmˈpɛl/ in the UK.
British respelling: kum-PEL.
What does compel mean?
- To overpower; to subdue.
- To force, constrain, or coerce.“Logic compels the wise, while fools feel compelled by emotions.”
- To forcefully or powerfully motivate (a course of action).
Where does compel come from?
From Middle English compellen, borrowed from Middle French compellir, from Latin compellere, itself from com- (“together”) + pellere (“to drive”).
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Words that rhyme with compel
Practicing rhymes is a quick way to lock in the vowel sound of compel.
Questions about saying compel
How do you pronounce compel?
Say kum-PEL. The American pronunciation is /kəmˈpɛl/. In British English it is /kəmˈpɛl/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in compel?
Compel has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the second one (PEL). Broken into parts: kum · PEL.
Do Americans and Brits say compel the same way?
Almost exactly. The American form is /kəmˈpɛl/ and the British form is /kəmˈpɛl/, so you can use either pronunciation with any listener.