How to pronounce underpin
Say it like uhn-der-PIN. Underpin has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the third one (PIN).
Click the play button next to American or British to hear how to pronounce underpin. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
- uhn
- der
- PIN
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Underpin pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- uhnGive this part a little weight. The vowel is the "u" in cup.
- derKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "er" in butter.
- PINSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "i" in sit.
American vs British pronunciation of underpin
- Americans pronounce the r after a vowel; most British speakers leave it silent and lengthen the vowel instead.
British respelling: uhn-duh-PIN.
What does underpin mean?
- To support from below with props or masonry.“You should underpin the mine roof to prevent further collapse.”
- To give support to; to form a basis of; to corroborate.“Public confidence in politicians must underpin our democracy.”
Where does underpin come from?
From under- + pin.
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Words that rhyme with underpin
Practicing rhymes is a quick way to lock in the vowel sound of underpin.
Questions about saying underpin
How do you pronounce underpin?
Say uhn-der-PIN. The American pronunciation is /ˌʌndɚˈpɪn/. In British English it is /ˌʌndəˈpɪn/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in underpin?
Underpin has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the third one (PIN). Broken into parts: uhn · der · PIN.
Is underpin 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 /ˌʌndəˈpɪn/ (uhn-duh-PIN).