How to pronounce metonym
Say it like MET-uh-nim. Metonym has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (MET).
Click the play button next to American or British to hear how to pronounce metonym. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
- MET
- uh
- nim
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Metonym pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- METSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "e" in bed.
- uhKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
- nimKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "i" in sit.
American vs British pronunciation of metonym
- Americans usually soften the t in the middle into a quick d-like tap; British speakers keep a crisp t.
British respelling: MET-uh-nim.
What does metonym mean?
- A word that names an object from a single characteristic of it or of a closely related object; a word used in metonymy.“Calling a government a "city hall" is using a metonym.”
- A concept, idea, or word used to represent, typify, or stand in for a broader set of ideas.
Where does metonym come from?
Back-formation from metonymy.
Questions about saying metonym
How do you pronounce metonym?
Say MET-uh-nim. The American pronunciation is /ˈmɛtənɪm/. In British English it is /ˈmɛtənɪm/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in metonym?
Metonym has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (MET). Broken into parts: MET · uh · nim.
Is metonym 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 /ˈmɛtənɪm/ (MET-uh-nim).