How to pronounce lectern
Say it like LEK-tern. Lectern has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (LEK).
Click the play button next to American or British to hear how to pronounce lectern. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
- LEK
- tern
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Lectern pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- LEKSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "e" in bed.
- ternKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "er" in butter.
American vs British pronunciation of lectern
- Americans pronounce the r after a vowel; most British speakers leave it silent and lengthen the vowel instead.
British respelling: LEK-tun.
What does lectern mean?
- A stand with a slanted top used to support a Bible from which passages are read during a church service.
- A similar stand to support a lecturer's notes.
Where does lectern come from?
15th century partial re-Latinization of early 14th century Middle English lettorne, lettron, from Old French leitrun, from Medieval Latin lectrinum, from Late Latin lectrum, from lectus (from whence also lecture), form of Latin legō (“to read”).
Questions about saying lectern
How do you pronounce lectern?
Say LEK-tern. The American pronunciation is /ˈlɛktɚn/. In British English it is /ˈlɛktən/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in lectern?
Lectern has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (LEK). Broken into parts: LEK · tern.
Is lectern 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 /ˈlɛktən/ (LEK-tun).