How to pronounce reservoir
Say it like REZ-uv-wor. Reservoir has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (REZ).
Click the play button next to American or British to hear how to pronounce reservoir. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
- REZ
- uv
- wor
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Reservoir pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- REZSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "e" in bed.
- uvKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
- worGive this part a little weight. The vowel is the "ah" in father.
American vs British pronunciation of reservoir
- Americans pronounce the r after a vowel; most British speakers leave it silent and lengthen the vowel instead.
British respelling: REZ-uv-wah.
What does reservoir mean?
- a large or extra supply of something“a reservoir of talent”
- lake used to store water for community use
- tank used for collecting and storing a liquid (as water or oil)
Where does reservoir come from?
From French réservoir (“collection place”) (fig.), réservoir (“storehouse”) (lit.).
Questions about saying reservoir
How do you pronounce reservoir?
Say REZ-uv-wor. The American pronunciation is /ˈrɛzəvˌwɑr/. In British English it is /ˈrɛzəvˌwɑː/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in reservoir?
Reservoir has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (REZ). Broken into parts: REZ · uv · wor.
Is reservoir 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 /ˈrɛzəvˌwɑː/ (REZ-uv-wah).