How to Pronounce Austere

To pronounce "austere", say AUST-er-e — 3 syllables, IPA /ɒstɪə(ɹ)/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

austere

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Accent

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Speed

Syllable by syllable — tap each one

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Syllables

Letters

/ɒstɪə(ɹ)/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “austere”

"austere" has 3 syllables: aust-er-e. It rhymes with sneer and jeer, if that helps it stick.

What does austere mean?

adjective

Grim or severe in manner or appearance
“The headmistress was an austere old woman.”
Lacking decoration; trivial; not extravagant or gaudy
“The interior of the church was as austere as the parishioners were dour.”

Synonyms

forbidding stern strict plain simple unadorned unembellished

Antonyms

extravagant flamboyant flashy gaudy overwrought

Hear “austere” 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 austere

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

sneer jeer cavalier clear severe peer queer premier chevalier insincere adhere steer

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "austere"?▾

"Austere" has 3 syllables: aust · er · e.

What is the IPA transcription of "austere"?▾

The IPA transcription of "austere" is /ɒstɪə(ɹ)/.

What does "austere" mean?▾

Austere: Grim or severe in manner or appearance

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