How to pronounce decaf
Say it like DEE-kaf. Decaf has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (DEE).
VoiceSpeed
US American/ˈdikæf/DEE-kaf
UK British/ˈdiːkæf/DEE-kaf
- DEE
- kaf
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Decaf pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- DEESay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "ee" in see.
- kafKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "a" in cat.
American vs British pronunciation of decaf
American and British speakers say decaf in essentially the same way: /ˈdikæf/ in the US and /ˈdiːkæf/ in the UK.
British respelling: DEE-kaf.
What does decaf mean?
adjective
- That has caffeine removed.
- A decaffeinated coffee, tea, or soft drink.
Where does decaf come from?
Clipping of decaffeinated.
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
- decaffeinated coffee
Questions about saying decaf
How do you pronounce decaf?
Say DEE-kaf. The American pronunciation is /ˈdikæf/. In British English it is /ˈdiːkæf/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in decaf?
Decaf has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (DEE). Broken into parts: DEE · kaf.
Do Americans and Brits say decaf the same way?
Almost exactly. The American form is /ˈdikæf/ and the British form is /ˈdiːkæf/, so you can use either pronunciation with any listener.