How to pronounce cosmetics
Say it like koz-MET-iks. Cosmetics has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the second one (MET).
Click the play button next to American or British to hear how to pronounce cosmetics. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
- koz
- MET
- iks
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Cosmetics pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- kozKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "ah" in father.
- METSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "e" in bed.
- iksKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "i" in sit.
American vs British pronunciation of cosmetics
- The short o is rounded in British English (as in "hot"), but open and unrounded in American English.
- Americans usually soften the t in the middle into a quick d-like tap; British speakers keep a crisp t.
British respelling: koz-MET-iks.
What does cosmetics mean?
- Preparations applied externally to change or enhance the beauty of skin, hair, nails, lips, and eyes.
- The way something looks; superficial appearance.
- The study of such products.
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Words that rhyme with cosmetics
Practicing rhymes is a quick way to lock in the vowel sound of cosmetics.
Questions about saying cosmetics
How do you pronounce cosmetics?
Say koz-MET-iks. The American pronunciation is /kɑzˈmɛtɪks/. In British English it is /kɒzˈmɛtɪks/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in cosmetics?
Cosmetics has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the second one (MET). Broken into parts: koz · MET · iks.
Is cosmetics 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 /kɒzˈmɛtɪks/ (koz-MET-iks).