How to pronounce inert
Say it like in-URT. Inert has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the second one (URT).
Click the play button next to American or British to hear how to pronounce inert. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
- in
- URT
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Inert pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- inGive this part a little weight. The vowel is the "i" in sit.
- URTSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "ur" in nurse.
American vs British pronunciation of inert
- Americans pronounce the r after a vowel; most British speakers leave it silent and lengthen the vowel instead.
British respelling: ih-NURT.
What does inert mean?
- Unable to move or act; inanimate.
- Sluggish or lethargic.
- Not readily reacting with other elements or compounds.
- A substance that does not react chemically.
- To fill with an inert gas to reduce the risk of explosion.
Where does inert come from?
From French inerte, from Latin iners (“inactive, inert”).
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Words that rhyme with inert
Practicing rhymes is a quick way to lock in the vowel sound of inert.
Questions about saying inert
How do you pronounce inert?
Say in-URT. The American pronunciation is /ˌɪˈnɝt/. In British English it is /ɪˈnɜːt/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in inert?
Inert has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the second one (URT). Broken into parts: in · URT.
Is inert 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 /ɪˈnɜːt/ (ih-NURT).