How to Pronounce Adolescence

To pronounce "adolescence", say AD-ol-esc-enc-e — 5 syllables, IPA /ˌædəˈlɛsəns/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

adolescence

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Accent

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Speed

Syllable by syllable — tap each one

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Syllables

Letters

/ˌædəˈlɛsəns/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “adolescence”

"adolescence" has 5 syllables: ad-ol-esc-enc-e. It rhymes with essence and acquiescence, if that helps it stick.

What does adolescence mean?

noun

The transitional period of physical and psychological development between childhood and maturity.
“During adolescence, the body and mind go through many complex changes, some of which are difficult to deal with.”

Synonyms

teendom teenhood

Hear “adolescence” in real sentences

Real example sentences from Tatoeba (CC-BY) — tap to hear each one, or see it used on YouGlish.

Words that rhyme with adolescence

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

essence acquiescence quintessence coalescence senescence luminescence obsolescence evanescence convalescence phosphorescence crescence escence

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "adolescence"?▾

"Adolescence" has 5 syllables: ad · ol · esc · enc · e.

What is the IPA transcription of "adolescence"?▾

The IPA transcription of "adolescence" is /ˌædəˈlɛsəns/.

What does "adolescence" mean?▾

Adolescence: The transitional period of physical and psychological development between childhood and maturity.

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