How to pronounce parsec
Say it like PAR-sek. Parsec 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 parsec. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
- PAR
- sek
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Parsec 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.
- sekKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "e" in bed.
American vs British pronunciation of parsec
- Americans pronounce the r after a vowel; most British speakers leave it silent and lengthen the vowel instead.
British respelling: PAH-sek.
What does parsec mean?
- Syllabic abbreviation of parallax second.
Where does parsec come from?
Contraction of parallax second.
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
- pc
Questions about saying parsec
How do you pronounce parsec?
Say PAR-sek. The American pronunciation is /ˈpɑrsɛk/. In British English it is /ˈpɑːsɛk/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in parsec?
Parsec has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (PAR). Broken into parts: PAR · sek.
Is parsec 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 /ˈpɑːsɛk/ (PAH-sek).