How to pronounce constellation
Say it like kahn-stuh-LAY-shun. Constellation has four syllables, and the main stress falls on the third one (LAY).
- kahn
- stuh
- LAY
- shun
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Constellation pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- kahnGive this part a little weight. The vowel is the "ah" in father.
- stuhKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
- LAYSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "ay" in day.
- shunKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
American vs British pronunciation of constellation
- The short o is rounded in British English (as in "hot"), but open and unrounded in American English.
British respelling: kon-stuh-LAY-shun.
What does constellation mean?
- An arbitrary formation of stars perceived as a figure (especially one from mythology) or pattern, or a division of the sky including it, especially one officially recognized by astronomers; an asterism.
- Any of the 88 regions of the sky officially recognized by the International Astronomical Union, including all stars and celestial bodies in the region.
- A configuration or grouping of related things.
Where does constellation come from?
From Middle English constellacioun, constillacioun (“(astrology) position of the moon or a planet in relation to the ascendant sign of the zodiac; horoscope; (astronomy) formation of fixed stars, constellation; (astronomy) elevation or posi
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Words that rhyme with constellation
Practicing rhymes is a quick way to lock in the vowel sound of constellation.
Questions about saying constellation
How do you pronounce constellation?
Say kahn-stuh-LAY-shun. The American pronunciation is /ˌkɑnstəˈleɪʃən/. In British English it is /ˌkɒnstəˈleɪʃən/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in constellation?
Constellation has four syllables, and the main stress falls on the third one (LAY). Broken into parts: kahn · stuh · LAY · shun.
Is constellation 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 /ˌkɒnstəˈleɪʃən/ (kon-stuh-LAY-shun).