How to pronounce retinue
Say it like RET-ih-nyoo. Retinue has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (RET).
Click the play button next to American or British to hear how to pronounce retinue. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
- RET
- ih
- nyoo
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Retinue pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- RETSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "e" in bed.
- ihKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "i" in sit.
- nyooKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "oo" in food.
American vs British pronunciation of retinue
- Americans usually soften the t in the middle into a quick d-like tap; British speakers keep a crisp t.
British respelling: RET-ih-nyoo.
What does retinue mean?
- A group of attendants or servants, especially of someone considered important.“the queen’s retinues”
- A group of warriors or nobles accompanying a king or other leader; comitatus.
Where does retinue come from?
From Middle English retenue, from Old French retenue, past participle of retenir (“retain”).
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Questions about saying retinue
How do you pronounce retinue?
Say RET-ih-nyoo. The American pronunciation is /ˈrɛtɪnju/. In British English it is /ˈrɛtɪnjuː/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in retinue?
Retinue has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (RET). Broken into parts: RET · ih · nyoo.
Is retinue pronounced differently in British English?
Yes. Americans usually soften the t in the middle into a quick d-like tap; British speakers keep a crisp t. The British form is /ˈrɛtɪnjuː/ (RET-ih-nyoo).