How to pronounce earwax
Say it like EER-waks. Earwax has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (EER).
Click the play button next to American or British to hear how to pronounce earwax. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
- EER
- waks
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Earwax pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- EERSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "ee" in see.
- waksKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "a" in cat.
American vs British pronunciation of earwax
- Americans pronounce the r after a vowel; most British speakers leave it silent and lengthen the vowel instead.
British respelling: EER-waks.
What does earwax mean?
- A waxy substance secreted by the ear.
Where does earwax come from?
From Middle English erewax, from ere + wax.
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Questions about saying earwax
How do you pronounce earwax?
Say EER-waks. The American pronunciation is /ˈirwæks/. In British English it is /ˈɪəwæks/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in earwax?
Earwax has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (EER). Broken into parts: EER · waks.
Is earwax 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 /ˈɪəwæks/ (EER-waks).