How to pronounce laxative
Say it like LAK-suh-tiv. Laxative 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 laxative. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
- LAK
- suh
- tiv
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Laxative 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.
- suhKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
- tivKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "i" in sit.
American vs British pronunciation of laxative
- Americans usually soften the t in the middle into a quick d-like tap; British speakers keep a crisp t.
British respelling: LAK-suh-tiv.
What does laxative mean?
- Having the effect of moving the bowels, or aiding digestion and preventing constipation.
- Any substance, such as a food or in the form of a medicine which has a laxative effect.
Where does laxative come from?
From Middle French laxatif, from Latin laxātīvus (literally “relaxing, loosening”).
Questions about saying laxative
How do you pronounce laxative?
Say LAK-suh-tiv. The American pronunciation is /ˈlæksətɪv/. In British English it is /ˈlæksətɪv/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in laxative?
Laxative has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (LAK). Broken into parts: LAK · suh · tiv.
Is laxative pronounced differently in British English?
Yes. Americans usually soften the t in the middle into a quick d-like tap; British speakers keep a crisp t. The British form is /ˈlæksətɪv/ (LAK-suh-tiv).