How to pronounce protean
Say it like PROH-tih-un. Protean has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (PROH).
Click the play button next to American or British to hear how to pronounce protean. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
- PROH
- tih
- un
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Protean pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- PROHSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "o" in go.
- tihKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "i" in sit.
- unKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
American vs British pronunciation of protean
- The long o starts further forward in British English, closer to "uh-oo" than the American "oh".
- Americans usually soften the t in the middle into a quick d-like tap; British speakers keep a crisp t.
British respelling: PROH-tih-un.
What does protean mean?
- Exceedingly variable; readily assuming different shapes or forms.“An amoeba is a protean animalcule.”
- Alternative letter-case form of Protean: of or relating to Proteus.
- A protein that has been slightly modified by water, dilute acid, or enzymes, but not modified to the extent of a metaprotein.
Where does protean come from?
From Proteus + -an, referring to the Greek warden of sea-beasts, renowned for his ability to change shape.
Questions about saying protean
How do you pronounce protean?
Say PROH-tih-un. The American pronunciation is /ˈproʊtɪən/. In British English it is /ˈprəʊtɪən/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in protean?
Protean has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (PROH). Broken into parts: PROH · tih · un.
Is protean pronounced differently in British English?
Yes. The long o starts further forward in British English, closer to "uh-oo" than the American "oh". The British form is /ˈprəʊtɪən/ (PROH-tih-un).