How to pronounce definition
Say it like def-uh-NISH-un. Definition has four syllables, and the main stress falls on the third one (NISH).
Click the play button next to American or British to hear how to pronounce definition. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
- def
- uh
- NISH
- un
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Definition pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- defGive this part a little weight. The vowel is the "e" in bed.
- uhKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
- NISHSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "i" in sit.
- unKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
American vs British pronunciation of definition
American and British speakers say definition in essentially the same way: /ˌdɛfəˈnɪʃən/ in the US and /ˌdɛfɪˈnɪʃən/ in the UK.
British respelling: def-ih-NISH-un.
What does definition mean?
- a concise explanation of the meaning of a word or phrase or symbol
- clarity of outline“exercise had given his muscles superior definition”
Where does definition come from?
From Middle English diffinicioun, from Middle French definition, from Latin dēfīnītiō, from dēfīniō.
Words that rhyme with definition
Practicing rhymes is a quick way to lock in the vowel sound of definition.
Questions about saying definition
How do you pronounce definition?
Say def-uh-NISH-un. The American pronunciation is /ˌdɛfəˈnɪʃən/. In British English it is /ˌdɛfɪˈnɪʃən/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in definition?
Definition has four syllables, and the main stress falls on the third one (NISH). Broken into parts: def · uh · NISH · un.
Do Americans and Brits say definition the same way?
Almost exactly. The American form is /ˌdɛfəˈnɪʃən/ and the British form is /ˌdɛfɪˈnɪʃən/, so you can use either pronunciation with any listener.