How to pronounce supple
Say it like SUHP-ul. Supple has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (SUHP).
- SUHP
- ul
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Supple pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- SUHPSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "u" in cup.
- ulKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
American vs British pronunciation of supple
American and British speakers say supple in essentially the same way: /ˈsʌpəl/ in the US and /ˈsʌpəl/ in the UK.
British respelling: SUHP-ul.
What does supple mean?
- Pliant, flexible, easy to bend.
- Lithe and agile when moving and bending.“supple joints”
- Compliant; yielding to the will of others.“a supple horse”
- To make or become supple.
- To make compliant, submissive, or obedient.
Where does supple come from?
From Middle English souple, from Old French souple, soupple (“soft, lithe, yielding”), from Latin supplic-, supplex (“suppliant, submissive, kneeling”), of uncertain formation.
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Words that rhyme with supple
Practicing rhymes is a quick way to lock in the vowel sound of supple.
Questions about saying supple
How do you pronounce supple?
Say SUHP-ul. The American pronunciation is /ˈsʌpəl/. In British English it is /ˈsʌpəl/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in supple?
Supple has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (SUHP). Broken into parts: SUHP · ul.
Do Americans and Brits say supple the same way?
Almost exactly. The American form is /ˈsʌpəl/ and the British form is /ˈsʌpəl/, so you can use either pronunciation with any listener.