How to pronounce headfirst
Say it like HED-furst. Headfirst has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (HED).
Click the play button next to American or British to hear how to pronounce headfirst. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
- HED
- furst
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Headfirst pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- HEDSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "e" in bed.
- furstGive this part a little weight. The vowel is the "ur" in nurse.
American vs British pronunciation of headfirst
- Americans pronounce the r after a vowel; most British speakers leave it silent and lengthen the vowel instead.
British respelling: HED-furst.
What does headfirst mean?
- With the head in front; headlong.
- With the head in front; headlong.
- Rashly; precipitately; without deliberation; hastily.
Where does headfirst come from?
From head + first.
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Questions about saying headfirst
How do you pronounce headfirst?
Say HED-furst. The American pronunciation is /ˈhɛdˌfɝst/. In British English it is /ˈhɛdˌfɜːst/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in headfirst?
Headfirst has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (HED). Broken into parts: HED · furst.
Is headfirst 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 /ˈhɛdˌfɜːst/ (HED-furst).