How to pronounce swivel
Say it like SWIV-ul. Swivel has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (SWIV).
Click the play button next to American or British to hear how to pronounce swivel. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
- SWIV
- ul
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Swivel pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- SWIVSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "i" in sit.
- ulKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
American vs British pronunciation of swivel
American and British speakers say swivel in essentially the same way: /ˈswɪvəl/ in the US and /ˈswɪvəl/ in the UK.
British respelling: SWIV-ul.
What does swivel mean?
- To swing or turn, as on a pin or pivot.
- A piece, such as a ring or hook, attached to another piece by a pin, in such a manner as to permit rotation about the pin as an axis.
- A small piece of ordnance, turning on a point or swivel; called also swivel gun.
- Strength of mind or character that enables one to overcome adversity; confidence; force of will.“Bob ain't got no swivel.”
Where does swivel come from?
From Middle English swyvel, swivel, from a derivative of Old English swīfan (“to revolve”), + -el, an instrumental suffix, equivalent to swive + -el.
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Words that rhyme with swivel
Practicing rhymes is a quick way to lock in the vowel sound of swivel.
Questions about saying swivel
How do you pronounce swivel?
Say SWIV-ul. The American pronunciation is /ˈswɪvəl/. In British English it is /ˈswɪvəl/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in swivel?
Swivel has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (SWIV). Broken into parts: SWIV · ul.
Do Americans and Brits say swivel the same way?
Almost exactly. The American form is /ˈswɪvəl/ and the British form is /ˈswɪvəl/, so you can use either pronunciation with any listener.