How to pronounce unctuous
Say it like UHNGCH-wus. Unctuous has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (UHNGCH).
- UHNGCH
- wus
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Unctuous pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- UHNGCHSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "u" in cup.
- wusKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
American vs British pronunciation of unctuous
American and British speakers say unctuous in essentially the same way: /ˈʌŋtʃwəs/ in the US and /ˈʌŋktʃʊəs/ in the UK.
British respelling: UHNGK-choors.
What does unctuous mean?
- Having the nature or properties of an unguent or ointment; greasy, oily.
- Having fat or oil present; fatty, greasy, oily.
- Of an aroma or taste, or a beverage (such as coffee or wine) or food (such as gravy, meat, or sauce): having layers of concentrated, velvety flavour; lush, rich.
Where does unctuous come from?
* Spanish untuoso
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
- mellowy
- oleaginous
- saponaceous
- slaistery
- savorous
- greasy
- oily
- slimy
Opposite meaning
- ununctuous
Questions about saying unctuous
How do you pronounce unctuous?
Say UHNGCH-wus. The American pronunciation is /ˈʌŋtʃwəs/. In British English it is /ˈʌŋktʃʊəs/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in unctuous?
Unctuous has two syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (UHNGCH). Broken into parts: UHNGCH · wus.
Do Americans and Brits say unctuous the same way?
Almost exactly. The American form is /ˈʌŋtʃwəs/ and the British form is /ˈʌŋktʃʊəs/, so you can use either pronunciation with any listener.