How to pronounce fairness
Say it like FAIR-nus. Fairness has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (FAIR).
- FAIR
- nus
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Fairness pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- FAIRSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "e" in bed.
- nusKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
American vs British pronunciation of fairness
- Americans pronounce the r after a vowel; most British speakers leave it silent and lengthen the vowel instead.
British respelling: FAIR-nus.
What does fairness mean?
- The property of being fair or equitable.“Some questioned the fairness of the new laws.”
Where does fairness come from?
From Middle English fairness, fæȝernesse, from Old English fæġernes (“fairness; beauty; pleasantness”), equivalent to fair + -ness.
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
- equity
- fair-mindedness
- candor
- candour
- paleness
- blondness
- comeliness
- loveliness
Opposite meaning
Words that rhyme with fairness
Practicing rhymes is a quick way to lock in the vowel sound of fairness.
Questions about saying fairness
How do you pronounce fairness?
Say FAIR-nus. The American pronunciation is /ˈfɛrnəs/. In British English it is /ˈfɛənəs/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in fairness?
Fairness has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (FAIR). Broken into parts: FAIR · nus.
Is fairness 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 /ˈfɛənəs/ (FAIR-nus).