How to pronounce counterpoise
Say it like KOWN-ter-poyz. Counterpoise has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (KOWN).
Click the play button next to American or British to hear how to pronounce counterpoise. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
- KOWN
- ter
- poyz
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Counterpoise pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- KOWNSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "ow" in now.
- terKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
- poyzGive this part a little weight. The vowel is the "oy" in boy.
American vs British pronunciation of counterpoise
- Americans pronounce the r after a vowel; most British speakers leave it silent and lengthen the vowel instead.
British respelling: KOWN-tuh-poyz.
What does counterpoise mean?
- A weight sufficient to balance another, for example in the opposite end of scales; an equal weight.
- An effect of equal power or force acting in opposition; a force sufficient to balance another force or influence
- The relation of two weights or forces which balance each other; equilibrium
- To act against with equal weight; to equal in weight; to balance the weight of; to counterbalance.
- To act against with equal power; to balance.
Where does counterpoise come from?
From Old French contrepois, contrepeser, later assimilated to poise.
Questions about saying counterpoise
How do you pronounce counterpoise?
Say KOWN-ter-poyz. The American pronunciation is /ˈkaʊntərˌpɔɪz/. In British English it is /ˈkaʊntəˌpɔɪz/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in counterpoise?
Counterpoise has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (KOWN). Broken into parts: KOWN · ter · poyz.
Is counterpoise pronounced differently in British English?
Yes. Americans pronounce the r after a vowel; most British speakers leave it silent and lengthen the vowel instead. The British form is /ˈkaʊntəˌpɔɪz/ (KOWN-tuh-poyz).