How to pronounce leer
Say it like LIH-er. Leer has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (LIH).
Click the play button next to American or British to hear how to pronounce leer. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
- LIH
- er
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Leer pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- LIHSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "i" in sit.
- erKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "er" in butter.
American vs British pronunciation of leer
- American English uses 2 syllables and British English 1.
- Americans pronounce the r after a vowel; most British speakers leave it silent and lengthen the vowel instead.
British respelling: LEER.
What does leer mean?
- To look sideways or obliquely; now especially with sexual desire or malicious intent.
- To entice with a leer or leers.
- A significant side glance; a glance expressive of some passion, as malignity, amorousness, etc.; a sly or lecherous look.
- An arch or affected glance or cast of countenance.
- Alternative form of lehr.
Where does leer come from?
Exact development uncertain, but apparently from a verb *leer (“to make a face, look sideways”), from leer (“cheek, face, profile”).
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Words that rhyme with leer
Practicing rhymes is a quick way to lock in the vowel sound of leer.
Questions about saying leer
How do you pronounce leer?
Say LIH-er. The American pronunciation is /ˈlɪɚ/. In British English it is /lɪə/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in leer?
Leer has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (LIH). Broken into parts: LIH · er.
Is leer pronounced differently in British English?
Yes. American English uses 2 syllables and British English 1. The British form is /lɪə/ (LEER).