How to pronounce vanity
Say it like VAN-uh-tee. Vanity has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (VAN).
- VAN
- uh
- tee
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Vanity pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- VANSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "a" in cat.
- uhKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the relaxed "uh" in about.
- teeKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "ee" in see.
American vs British pronunciation of vanity
- Americans usually soften the t in the middle into a quick d-like tap; British speakers keep a crisp t.
British respelling: VAN-ih-tee.
What does vanity mean?
- That which is vain, futile, or worthless; that which is of no value, use or profit.
- Excessive pride in or admiration of one's own abilities, appearance, achievements, or possessions.
- A dressing table used to apply makeup, preen, and coif hair, in which the table is normally quite low and similar to a desk.
Where does vanity come from?
From va(i)n + -ity, from Middle English vanite, from Old French vanité, from Latin vānitas, from vānus, whence English vain.
Similar and opposite words
Similar meaning
Words that rhyme with vanity
Practicing rhymes is a quick way to lock in the vowel sound of vanity.
Questions about saying vanity
How do you pronounce vanity?
Say VAN-uh-tee. The American pronunciation is /ˈvænəti/. In British English it is /ˈvænɪti/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in vanity?
Vanity has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (VAN). Broken into parts: VAN · uh · tee.
Is vanity pronounced differently in British English?
Yes. Americans usually soften the t in the middle into a quick d-like tap; British speakers keep a crisp t. The British form is /ˈvænɪti/ (VAN-ih-tee).