How to Pronounce “El Niño”
Free audio in American, British, and Australian English.
▶ Hear it pronouncedIPA Transcription
- American (US)
- /ɛl ˈniːnjoʊ/
- British (UK)
- /el ˈniːnjəʊ/
What “El Niño” means
proper noun — An invasion of warm water into the surface of the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Peru and Ecuador, the positive phase of the multi-year ENSO cycle, which causes changes in local and regional climate.
Pronunciation Notes
Where the stress falls. “El Niño” has 3 syllables, and the transcription /ɛl ˈniːnjoʊ/ puts the primary stress mark (ˈ) before the second one — so the second syllable is the longest and loudest. The others are said quickly and lightly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "El Niño" mean?
El Niño (proper noun): An invasion of warm water into the surface of the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Peru and Ecuador, the positive phase of the multi-year ENSO cycle, which causes changes in local and regional climate.
How do you pronounce "El Niño" in American vs British English?
American English: /ɛl ˈniːnjoʊ/. British English: /el ˈniːnjəʊ/. Play both on this page to hear the difference.
What is the IPA transcription of "El Niño"?
/ɛl ˈniːnjoʊ/ in American English, /el ˈniːnjəʊ/ in British English.
Which syllable is stressed in "El Niño"?
“El Niño” has 3 syllables, and the transcription /ɛl ˈniːnjoʊ/ puts the primary stress mark (ˈ) before the second one — so the second syllable is the longest and loudest. The others are said quickly and lightly.
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