How to Pronounce “Xavier”
Free audio in American, British, and Australian English.
▶ Hear it pronouncedIPA Transcription
- American (US)
- /ˈzeɪviər/
- British (UK)
- /ˈzeɪviə/
What “Xavier” means
proper noun — A male given name from Spanish [in turn from Basque].
Pronunciation Notes
Where the stress falls. “Xavier” has 3 syllables, and the transcription /ˈzeɪviər/ 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.
An unstressed vowel reduces to schwa. /ˈzeɪviər/ contains a schwa /ə/ — the short, neutral “uh” that English unstressed syllables collapse into. Saying /ə/ there, instead of the vowel the spelling suggests, is most of what makes the word sound native.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "Xavier" mean?
Xavier (proper noun): A male given name from Spanish [in turn from Basque].
How do you pronounce "Xavier" in American vs British English?
American English: /ˈzeɪviər/. British English: /ˈzeɪviə/. Play both on this page to hear the difference.
What is the IPA transcription of "Xavier"?
/ˈzeɪviər/ in American English, /ˈzeɪviə/ in British English.
Which syllable is stressed in "Xavier"?
“Xavier” has 3 syllables, and the transcription /ˈzeɪviər/ 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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