How to pronounce sharpness
Say it like SHARP-nus. Sharpness has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (SHARP).
- SHARP
- nus
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Sharpness pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- SHARPSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "ah" in father.
- nusKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
American vs British pronunciation of sharpness
- Americans pronounce the r after a vowel; most British speakers leave it silent and lengthen the vowel instead.
British respelling: SHAHP-nus.
What does sharpness mean?
- the cutting ability of an edge; keenness.
- the fineness of the point a pointed object.
- The product or result of being sharp.
Where does sharpness come from?
From Middle English sharpnesse, scharpnesse, from Old English sċearpnes (“sharpness”), equivalent to sharp + -ness.
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
- keenness
- acidity
- acridity
- piquancy
- pungency
- clarity
- distinctness
- focus
Opposite meaning
Questions about saying sharpness
How do you pronounce sharpness?
Say SHARP-nus. The American pronunciation is /ˈʃɑrpnəs/. In British English it is /ˈʃɑːpnəs/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in sharpness?
Sharpness has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (SHARP). Broken into parts: SHARP · nus.
Is sharpness 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 /ˈʃɑːpnəs/ (SHAHP-nus).