How to pronounce suspenders
Say it like suh-SPEN-derz. Suspenders has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the second one (SPEN).
Click the play button next to American or British to hear how to pronounce suspenders. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
- suh
- SPEN
- derz
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Suspenders pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- suhKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
- SPENSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "e" in bed.
- derzKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "er" in butter.
American vs British pronunciation of suspenders
- Americans pronounce the r after a vowel; most British speakers leave it silent and lengthen the vowel instead.
British respelling: suh-SPEN-duz.
What does suspenders mean?
- A pair of straps crossing one's shoulders and extending down to one's trousers, where a clip or button arrangement allows them to affix to the trousers, ensuring that they will not fall off.
- Small straps, attached to a suspender belt, that hold up a woman's stockings.
Where does suspenders come from?
From suspend + -er. Compare hanger.
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Questions about saying suspenders
How do you pronounce suspenders?
Say suh-SPEN-derz. The American pronunciation is /səˈspɛndɚz/. In British English it is /səˈspɛndəz/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in suspenders?
Suspenders has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the second one (SPEN). Broken into parts: suh · SPEN · derz.
Is suspenders 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 /səˈspɛndəz/ (suh-SPEN-duz).