How to pronounce curlicue
Say it like KUR-lik-yoo. Curlicue has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (KUR).
Click the play button next to American or British to hear how to pronounce curlicue. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
- KUR
- lik
- yoo
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Curlicue pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- KURSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "ur" in nurse.
- likGive this part a little weight. The vowel is the "i" in sit.
- yooKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "oo" in food.
American vs British pronunciation of curlicue
- Americans pronounce the r after a vowel; most British speakers leave it silent and lengthen the vowel instead.
British respelling: KUR-lik-yoo.
What does curlicue mean?
- A fancy twisting or curling shape usually made from a series of spirals and loops.
- To make or adorn (something) with curlicues, or as if with curlicues.
Where does curlicue come from?
From curly + cue.
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Questions about saying curlicue
How do you pronounce curlicue?
Say KUR-lik-yoo. The American pronunciation is /ˈkɝˌlɪkju/. In British English it is /ˈkɜːˌlɪkjuː/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in curlicue?
Curlicue has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (KUR). Broken into parts: KUR · lik · yoo.
Is curlicue 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 /ˈkɜːˌlɪkjuː/ (KUR-lik-yoo).