How to pronounce leisure
Say it like LEZH-er. Leisure has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (LEZH).
- LEZH
- er
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Tip: The first vowel differs: 'LEE-zher' in the US, 'LEZH-uh' in Britain.
Leisure pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- LEZHSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "e" in bed.
- erKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "er" in butter.
American vs British pronunciation of leisure
- Americans pronounce the r after a vowel; most British speakers leave it silent and lengthen the vowel instead.
British respelling: LEZH-uh.
Other ways to say leisure
Leisure also has this pronunciation, usually with a different meaning or use:
- LEE-zher /ˈliʒɚ/
What does leisure mean?
- Freedom provided by the cessation of activities.
- Free time, time free from work or duties.
- Time at one's command, free from engagement; convenient opportunity; hence, convenience; ease.
Where does leisure come from?
From Middle English leyser, from Anglo-Norman leisir, variant of Old French loisir (“to enjoy oneself”) (Modern French loisir survives as a noun), substantive use of a verb, from Latin licēre (“be permitted”).
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
- leisure time
Words that rhyme with leisure
Practicing rhymes is a quick way to lock in the vowel sound of leisure.
Questions about saying leisure
How do you pronounce leisure?
Say LEZH-er. The American pronunciation is /ˈlɛʒɚ/. In British English it is /ˈlɛʒə/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in leisure?
Leisure has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (LEZH). Broken into parts: LEZH · er.
Is leisure 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 /ˈlɛʒə/ (LEZH-uh).