How to Pronounce “alligator”
Free audio in American, British, and Australian English.
▶ Hear it pronouncedIPA Transcription
- American (US)
- /ˈæl.ɪ.ɡeɪ.tɚ/
- British (UK)
- /ˈæl.ɪ.ɡeɪ.tə/
- Australian (AU)
- /ˈæl.ɪ.ɡæɪ.tə/
What “alligator” means
noun — Either of two species of large amphibious reptile, Alligator mississippiensis or Alligator sinensis, in the genus Alligator within order Crocodilia, which have sharp teeth and very strong jaws and are native to the Americas and China, respectively.
Example: All you could see of the alligator were two eyes above the water, then suddenly it snatched up and caught the poor bird with strong jaws full of sharp teeth.
Pronunciation Notes
Where the stress falls. “alligator” has 4 syllables, and the transcription /ˈæl.ɪ.ɡeɪ.tɚ/ puts the primary stress mark (ˈ) before the first one — so the first syllable is the longest and loudest. The others are said quickly and lightly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "alligator" mean?
alligator (noun): Either of two species of large amphibious reptile, Alligator mississippiensis or Alligator sinensis, in the genus Alligator within order Crocodilia, which have sharp teeth and very strong jaws and are native to the Americas and China, respectively. For example — All you could see of the alligator were two eyes above the water, then suddenly it snatched up and caught the poor bird with strong jaws full of sharp teeth.
How do you pronounce "alligator" in American vs British English?
American English: /ˈæl.ɪ.ɡeɪ.tɚ/. British English: /ˈæl.ɪ.ɡeɪ.tə/. Play both on this page to hear the difference.
What is the IPA transcription of "alligator"?
/ˈæl.ɪ.ɡeɪ.tɚ/ in American English, /ˈæl.ɪ.ɡeɪ.tə/ in British English, /ˈæl.ɪ.ɡæɪ.tə/ in Australian English.
Which syllable is stressed in "alligator"?
“alligator” has 4 syllables, and the transcription /ˈæl.ɪ.ɡeɪ.tɚ/ puts the primary stress mark (ˈ) before the first one — so the first syllable is the longest and loudest. The others are said quickly and lightly.
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