How to pronounce handcuff
Say it like HAND-kuhf. Handcuff has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (HAND).
- HAND
- kuhf
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Handcuff pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- HANDSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "a" in cat.
- kuhfGive this part a little weight. The vowel is the "u" in cup.
American vs British pronunciation of handcuff
American and British speakers say handcuff in essentially the same way: /ˈhændˌkʌf/ in the US and /ˈhændˌkʌf/ in the UK.
British respelling: HAND-kuhf.
What does handcuff mean?
- One ring of a locking fetter for the hand or one pair.
- To apply handcuffs to someone.
- to restrain or restrict.“Dang, I’m handcuffed by these regulations. I’d like to help but it’d be illegal.”
Where does handcuff come from?
From hand + cuff (“end of shirtsleeve”).
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Questions about saying handcuff
How do you pronounce handcuff?
Say HAND-kuhf. The American pronunciation is /ˈhændˌkʌf/. In British English it is /ˈhændˌkʌf/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in handcuff?
Handcuff has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (HAND). Broken into parts: HAND · kuhf.
Do Americans and Brits say handcuff the same way?
Almost exactly. The American form is /ˈhændˌkʌf/ and the British form is /ˈhændˌkʌf/, so you can use either pronunciation with any listener.