How to pronounce lackluster
Say it like LAK-luh-ster. Lackluster has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (LAK).
Click the play button next to American or British to hear how to pronounce lackluster. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
- LAK
- luh
- ster
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Lackluster pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- LAKSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "a" in cat.
- luhKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "u" in cup.
- sterKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "er" in butter.
American vs British pronunciation of lackluster
- Americans pronounce the r after a vowel; most British speakers leave it silent and lengthen the vowel instead.
British respelling: LAK-luh-stuh.
What does lackluster mean?
- Lacking brilliance or intelligence.
- Having no shine or luster; dull.
- Not exceptional; not worthy of special merit, attention, or interest; having no vitality.“The actor gave a lackluster performance in his latest film.”
- Lack of brightness or points of interest.
- A person or thing of no particular brilliance or intelligence.
Where does lackluster come from?
From lack + luster.
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Questions about saying lackluster
How do you pronounce lackluster?
Say LAK-luh-ster. The American pronunciation is /ˈlæklʌstɚ/. In British English it is /ˈlæklʌstə/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in lackluster?
Lackluster has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (LAK). Broken into parts: LAK · luh · ster.
Is lackluster 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 /ˈlæklʌstə/ (LAK-luh-stuh).