How to Pronounce “zebra”
Free audio in American, British, and Australian English.
▶ Hear it pronouncedIPA Transcription
- American (US)
- /ˈziːbrə/
- British (UK)
- /ˈzebrə/
What “zebra” means
noun — An African wild horse with black-and-white stripes.
Example: A zebra can be identified by its stripe pattern alone.
Pronunciation Notes
Where the stress falls. “zebra” has 2 syllables, and the transcription /ˈziːbrə/ 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. /ˈziːbrə/ 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 "zebra" mean?
zebra (noun): An African wild horse with black-and-white stripes. For example — A zebra can be identified by its stripe pattern alone.
How do you pronounce "zebra" in American vs British English?
American English: /ˈziːbrə/. British English: /ˈzebrə/. Play both on this page to hear the difference.
What is the IPA transcription of "zebra"?
/ˈziːbrə/ in American English, /ˈzebrə/ in British English.
Which syllable is stressed in "zebra"?
“zebra” has 2 syllables, and the transcription /ˈziːbrə/ 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.
Related words to practice
Practice lists with this word
Browse the full word index or use the pronunciation tool.