How to pronounce parlay
Say it like PAR-lay. Parlay has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (PAR).
Click the play button next to American or British to hear how to pronounce parlay. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
- PAR
- lay
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Parlay pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- PARSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "ah" in father.
- layGive this part a little weight. The vowel is the "ay" in day.
American vs British pronunciation of parlay
- Americans pronounce the r after a vowel; most British speakers leave it silent and lengthen the vowel instead.
British respelling: PAH-lay.
What does parlay mean?
- To carry forward the stake and winnings from a bet on to a subsequent wager or series of wagers.
- To increase (an asset, money, etc.) by gambling or investing in a daring manner.“Shall we parlay the value of our products?”
- To convert (a situation, thing, etc.) into something better.
- A bet or series of bets where the stake and winnings are cumulatively carried forward; an accumulator.
Where does parlay come from?
The noun is derived from the verb.
Questions about saying parlay
How do you pronounce parlay?
Say PAR-lay. The American pronunciation is /ˈpɑrˌleɪ/. In British English it is /ˈpɑːleɪ/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in parlay?
Parlay has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (PAR). Broken into parts: PAR · lay.
Is parlay 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 /ˈpɑːleɪ/ (PAH-lay).