How to pronounce underwrite
Say it like UHN-der-ryte. Underwrite has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (UHN).
- UHN
- der
- ryte
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Underwrite pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- UHNSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "u" in cup.
- derKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "er" in butter.
- ryteGive this part a little weight. The vowel is the "i" in time.
American vs British pronunciation of underwrite
- Americans pronounce the r after a vowel; most British speakers leave it silent and lengthen the vowel instead.
British respelling: UHN-duh-ryte.
What does underwrite mean?
- To write below or under; subscribe.
- To sign; to put one's name to.
- To agree to pay by signing one's name; subscribe.
Where does underwrite come from?
From Middle English underwriten, from Old English underwrītan (“to write at the foot of, write under, subscribe”).
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
- subvention
- subvent
- cover
- insure
Questions about saying underwrite
How do you pronounce underwrite?
Say UHN-der-ryte. The American pronunciation is /ˈʌndɚˌraɪt/. In British English it is /ˈʌndəraɪt/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in underwrite?
Underwrite has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (UHN). Broken into parts: UHN · der · ryte.
Is underwrite 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 /ˈʌndəraɪt/ (UHN-duh-ryte).