How to Pronounce Carnation

To pronounce "carnation", say CARN-at-ion — 3 syllables, IPA /kɑːˈneɪ.ʃən/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

carnation

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Accent

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Speed

Syllable by syllable — tap each one

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Syllables

Letters

/kɑːˈneɪ.ʃən/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “carnation”

"carnation" has 3 syllables: carn-at-ion. It rhymes with trepidation and indignation, if that helps it stick.

What does carnation mean?

noun

(botany) A type of Eurasian plant widely cultivated for its flowers.
The type of flower they bear, originally flesh-coloured, but since hybridizing found in a variety of colours.

adjective

Of a rosy pink or red colour.
Of a human flesh color.

Synonyms

Dianthus caryophyllus clove pink gillyflower

Hear “carnation” 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 carnation

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

trepidation indignation exhilaration veneration elation condemnation gratification inclination aspiration desolation affirmation rumination

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "carnation"?▾

"Carnation" has 3 syllables: carn · at · ion.

What is the IPA transcription of "carnation"?▾

The IPA transcription of "carnation" is /kɑːˈneɪ.ʃən/.

What does "carnation" mean?▾

Carnation: (botany) A type of Eurasian plant widely cultivated for its flowers.

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