How to pronounce switchback
Say it like SWICH-bak. Switchback has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (SWICH).
- SWICH
- bak
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Switchback pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- SWICHSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "i" in sit.
- bakGive this part a little weight. The vowel is the "a" in cat.
American vs British pronunciation of switchback
American and British speakers say switchback in essentially the same way: /ˈswɪtʃˌbæk/ in the US and /ˈswɪtʃbæk/ in the UK.
British respelling: SWICH-bak.
What does switchback mean?
- A railway track on a steep slope in a zigzag formation, in which a train travels in a reverse direction at each switch.
- A railway track on which there are steep ascents and descents, a train moving partially or fully by the force of gravity using the momentum generated when descending to travel up an ascending part of the track; especially (UK, dated), such a track built for fun rides at an amusement park; a type of
- A flight path consisting of a series of steep ascents and descents, generally flown as a stunt.
- To take a zigzag course or path.
Where does switchback come from?
The verb is derived from the noun.
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Questions about saying switchback
How do you pronounce switchback?
Say SWICH-bak. The American pronunciation is /ˈswɪtʃˌbæk/. In British English it is /ˈswɪtʃbæk/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in switchback?
Switchback has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (SWICH). Broken into parts: SWICH · bak.
Do Americans and Brits say switchback the same way?
Almost exactly. The American form is /ˈswɪtʃˌbæk/ and the British form is /ˈswɪtʃbæk/, so you can use either pronunciation with any listener.