How to Pronounce “barbecue”
Free audio in American, British, and Australian English.
▶ Hear it pronouncedIPA Transcription
- American (US)
- /ˈbɑɹbɪˌkju/
- British (UK)
- /ˈbɑːbɪˌkjuː/
What “barbecue” means
noun — A fireplace or pit for grilling food, typically used outdoors and traditionally employing hot charcoal as the heating medium.
Example: We cooked our food on the barbecue.
Pronunciation Notes
Where the stress falls. “barbecue” has 3 syllables, and the transcription /ˈbɑɹbɪˌkju/ 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 "barbecue" mean?
barbecue (noun): A fireplace or pit for grilling food, typically used outdoors and traditionally employing hot charcoal as the heating medium. For example — We cooked our food on the barbecue.
How do you pronounce "barbecue" in American vs British English?
American English: /ˈbɑɹbɪˌkju/. British English: /ˈbɑːbɪˌkjuː/. Play both on this page to hear the difference.
What is the IPA transcription of "barbecue"?
/ˈbɑɹbɪˌkju/ in American English, /ˈbɑːbɪˌkjuː/ in British English.
Which syllable is stressed in "barbecue"?
“barbecue” has 3 syllables, and the transcription /ˈbɑɹbɪˌkju/ 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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