How to pronounce severance
Say it like SEV-ur-runs. Severance has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (SEV).
Click the play button next to American or British to hear how to pronounce severance. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
- SEV
- ur
- runs
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Severance pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- SEVSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "e" in bed.
- urGive this part a little weight.
- runsKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
American vs British pronunciation of severance
- American English uses 3 syllables and British English 2.
British respelling: SEV-runs.
What does severance mean?
- The act of severing or the state of being severed.
- A separation.
- A severance payment.
Where does severance come from?
From sever + -ance, from Middle English severaunce, from Anglo-Norman, Old French sevrance, from sevrer.
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Questions about saying severance
How do you pronounce severance?
Say SEV-ur-runs. The American pronunciation is /ˈsɛˌvɜrəns/. In British English it is /ˈsɛvrəns/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in severance?
Severance has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (SEV). Broken into parts: SEV · ur · runs.
Is severance pronounced differently in British English?
Yes. American English uses 3 syllables and British English 2. The British form is /ˈsɛvrəns/ (SEV-runs).