How to Pronounce Bootstrap

To pronounce "bootstrap", say BOOTSTR-ap — 2 syllables, IPA /ˈbuːtˌstɹæp/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

bootstrap

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Accent

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Speed

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2

Syllables

9

Letters

/ˈbuːtˌstɹæp/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “bootstrap”

"bootstrap" has 2 syllables: bootstr-ap. It rhymes with snap and trap, if that helps it stick.

What does bootstrap mean?

noun

  1. A loop (leather or other material) sewn at the side or top rear of a boot to help in pulling the boot on.
  2. A means of advancing oneself or accomplishing something without aid.

    “He used his business experience as a bootstrap to win voters.”

verb

  1. To help (oneself) without the aid of others.

    “Sam spent years bootstrapping himself through college.”

  2. To load the operating system into the memory of a computer. Usually shortened to boot.

Words that rhyme with bootstrap

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

snaptraplapwrapsapclapflaprapcrapmishappapstopgap

Related words

bootstartupstartmethodbootableliftersbootlacebackstrap

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "bootstrap"?▾

"Bootstrap" has 2 syllables: bootstr · ap.

What is the IPA transcription of "bootstrap"?▾

The IPA transcription of "bootstrap" is /ˈbuːtˌstɹæp/.

What does "bootstrap" mean?▾

Bootstrap: A loop (leather or other material) sewn at the side or top rear of a boot to help in pulling the boot on.

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