How to pronounce plumber
Say it like PLUHM-er. Plumber has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (PLUHM).
- PLUHM
- er
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Tip: The b after m is silent, so the middle sounds like 'plum', not 'plumb-ber'.
Plumber pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- PLUHMSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "u" in cup.
- erKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "er" in butter.
American vs British pronunciation of plumber
- Americans pronounce the r after a vowel; most British speakers leave it silent and lengthen the vowel instead.
British respelling: PLUHM-uh.
What does plumber mean?
- One who works in or with lead.
- One who furnishes, fits, and repairs pipes and other apparatus for the conveyance of water, gas, or drainage.“Mario and Luigi's profession is plumbers.”
- A person who investigates or prevents leaks of information.
- To botch or ruin.
- To work as a plumber.
- To work on (something) as a plumber.
Where does plumber come from?
The verb sense “to botch” is perhaps from the negative stereotype of the occupation.
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
- plumb
- pipe fitter
Words that rhyme with plumber
Practicing rhymes is a quick way to lock in the vowel sound of plumber.
Words that sound like plumber
- plummer
Questions about saying plumber
How do you pronounce plumber?
Say PLUHM-er. The American pronunciation is /ˈplʌmɚ/. In British English it is /ˈplʌmə/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in plumber?
Plumber has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (PLUHM). Broken into parts: PLUHM · er.
Is plumber 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 /ˈplʌmə/ (PLUHM-uh).
What words sound the same as plumber?
Plumber sounds the same as plummer in American English. The spelling and meaning are what tell them apart.