How to pronounce ordnance
Say it like ORD-nuns. Ordnance has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (ORD).
Click the play button next to American or British to hear how to pronounce ordnance. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
- ORD
- nuns
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Ordnance pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- ORDSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "aw" in law.
- nunsKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
American vs British pronunciation of ordnance
- Americans pronounce the r after a vowel; most British speakers leave it silent and lengthen the vowel instead.
British respelling: AWD-nuns.
What does ordnance mean?
- Military equipment, especially weapons and ammunition.
- Artillery.
Where does ordnance come from?
A reduced form of ordinance, which is attested from the late 14th century in the sense of “military equipment or provisions”.
Questions about saying ordnance
How do you pronounce ordnance?
Say ORD-nuns. The American pronunciation is /ˈɔrdnəns/. In British English it is /ˈɔːdnəns/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in ordnance?
Ordnance has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (ORD). Broken into parts: ORD · nuns.
Is ordnance 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 /ˈɔːdnəns/ (AWD-nuns).