How to pronounce debut
Say it like DAY-byoo. Debut has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (DAY).
- DAY
- byoo
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Tip: The t is silent: 'day-BYOO' in the US, 'DAY-byoo' in Britain.
Debut pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- DAYSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "ay" in day.
- byooKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "oo" in food.
American vs British pronunciation of debut
American and British speakers say debut in essentially the same way: /ˈdeɪbju/ in the US and /ˈdeɪbjuː/ in the UK.
British respelling: DAY-byoo.
Other ways to say debut
Debut also has this pronunciation, usually with a different meaning or use:
- day-BYOO /deɪˈbju/
What does debut mean?
- A performer's first performance to the public, in sport, the arts or some other area.
- The first public presentation of a theatrical play, motion picture, opera, musical composition, dance, or other performing arts piece.“Since making its debut two years ago, the program has gained cult status.”
- The first appearance of a debutante in society.
- To formally introduce, as to the public.“Amalgamated Software Systems debuted release 3.2 in Spring of 2004.”
- To make one's initial formal appearance.“Release 3.2 debuted to mixed reviews in Spring of 2004.”
Where does debut come from?
Borrowed from French début, from Middle French, derivative of débuter (“to move, begin”), from dé- + but (“mark, goal”), from Old French but (“aim, goal, end, target”), from Old French butte (“mound, knoll, target”), from Frankish *but (“st
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
- introduction
- first appearance
- launching
- unveiling
- entry
Questions about saying debut
How do you pronounce debut?
Say DAY-byoo. The American pronunciation is /ˈdeɪbju/. In British English it is /ˈdeɪbjuː/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in debut?
Debut has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (DAY). Broken into parts: DAY · byoo.
Do Americans and Brits say debut the same way?
Almost exactly. The American form is /ˈdeɪbju/ and the British form is /ˈdeɪbjuː/, so you can use either pronunciation with any listener.