How to Pronounce Awkward

To pronounce "awkward", say AWKW-ard — 2 syllables, IPA /ˈɑkwɝd/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

awkward

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Accent

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Speed

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2

Syllables

7

Letters

/ˈɑkwɝd/

🇺🇸 IPA (US)

/ˈɔːkwəd/

🇬🇧 IPA (UK)

💡 Tip for remembering “awkward”

Break "awkward" into 2 beats and lean on "AWKW" — that's the stressed one.

What does awkward mean?

noun

  1. Someone or something that is awkward.

adjective

  1. Lacking dexterity in the use of the hands, or of instruments.

    “John was awkward at performing the trick. He'll have to practice to improve.”

  2. Not easily managed or effected; embarrassing.

    “An awkward silence had fallen.”

adverb

  1. In a backwards direction.

Synonyms

clumsylubberlyungracefulunhandymaladroit

Antonyms

amiablecooldexterousgainlygracefulhandy

Related words

strainedlaboredlaboureddifficultcumbersomehardembarrassingsticky

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "awkward"?▾

"Awkward" has 2 syllables: awkw · ard.

What is the IPA transcription of "awkward"?▾

The IPA transcription of "awkward" is /ˈɑkwɝd/.

What does "awkward" mean?▾

Awkward: Someone or something that is awkward.

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