How to pronounce etiquette
Say it like ET-uh-kut. Etiquette has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (ET).
Click the play button next to American or British to hear how to pronounce etiquette. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
- ET
- uh
- kut
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Etiquette pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- ETSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "e" in bed.
- uhKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
- kutKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
American vs British pronunciation of etiquette
- Americans usually soften the t in the middle into a quick d-like tap; British speakers keep a crisp t.
British respelling: ET-uh-kut.
What does etiquette mean?
- The manners or decent behavior to be observed in social or professional life; conventional decorum; the ceremonial code of polite society.
- The customary behavior of members of a profession, business, law, or sports team towards each other.
- A label used to indicate that a letter is to be sent by airmail.
Where does etiquette come from?
The French Court of Louis XIV at Versailles used étiquettes (literally “little cards”) to remind courtiers to keep off of the grass and similar rules.
Questions about saying etiquette
How do you pronounce etiquette?
Say ET-uh-kut. The American pronunciation is /ˈɛtəkət/. In British English it is /ˈɛtəkət/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in etiquette?
Etiquette has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (ET). Broken into parts: ET · uh · kut.
Is etiquette pronounced differently in British English?
Yes. Americans usually soften the t in the middle into a quick d-like tap; British speakers keep a crisp t. The British form is /ˈɛtəkət/ (ET-uh-kut).