How to Pronounce “tsunami”
Free audio in American, British, and Australian English.
▶ Hear it pronouncedIPA Transcription
- American (US)
- /tsuːˈnɑːmi/
- British (UK)
- /tsʊˈnɑːmi/
What “tsunami” means
noun — A very large ocean wave caused by an earthquake or undersea disturbance.
Example: The tsunami reached the coast within an hour.
Pronunciation Notes
Where the stress falls. “tsunami” has 3 syllables, and the transcription /tsuːˈnɑːmi/ 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 "tsunami" mean?
tsunami (noun): A very large ocean wave caused by an earthquake or undersea disturbance. For example — The tsunami reached the coast within an hour.
How do you pronounce "tsunami" in American vs British English?
American English: /tsuːˈnɑːmi/. British English: /tsʊˈnɑːmi/. Play both on this page to hear the difference.
What is the IPA transcription of "tsunami"?
/tsuːˈnɑːmi/ in American English, /tsʊˈnɑːmi/ in British English.
Which syllable is stressed in "tsunami"?
“tsunami” has 3 syllables, and the transcription /tsuːˈnɑːmi/ 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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