How to pronounce tailback
Say it like TAYL-bak. Tailback has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (TAYL).
- TAYL
- bak
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Tailback pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- TAYLSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "ay" in day.
- bakGive this part a little weight. The vowel is the "a" in cat.
American vs British pronunciation of tailback
American and British speakers say tailback in essentially the same way: /ˈteɪlˌbæk/ in the US and /ˈteɪlˌbæk/ in the UK.
British respelling: TAYL-bak.
What does tailback mean?
- A line of motor vehicles causing or the result of traffic congestion or a traffic jam.
- A running back or halfback who lines up furthest to the rear in an I formation.
Where does tailback come from?
From tail + back.
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Questions about saying tailback
How do you pronounce tailback?
Say TAYL-bak. The American pronunciation is /ˈteɪlˌbæk/. In British English it is /ˈteɪlˌbæk/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in tailback?
Tailback has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (TAYL). Broken into parts: TAYL · bak.
Do Americans and Brits say tailback the same way?
Almost exactly. The American form is /ˈteɪlˌbæk/ and the British form is /ˈteɪlˌbæk/, so you can use either pronunciation with any listener.