How to Pronounce Characterize

To pronounce "characterize", say CHAR-act-er-iz-e — 5 syllables, IPA /ˈkæɹəktəɹaɪz/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

characterize

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Accent

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Speed

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5

Syllables

12

Letters

/ˈkæɹəktəɹaɪz/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “characterize”

"characterize" has 5 syllables: char-act-er-iz-e. It rhymes with scrutinize and surmise, if that helps it stick.

What does characterize mean?

verb

  1. To depict someone or something a particular way (often negative).
  2. To be typical of.

Hear “characterize” 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 characterize

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

scrutinizesurmiseaggrandizeemphasizerecognizeactualizeanalyzereprisecompriselikewisedemiserise

Related words

qualifycharacterizationtypifydefiningdescribeidentifyembodydefine

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "characterize"?▾

"Characterize" has 5 syllables: char · act · er · iz · e.

What is the IPA transcription of "characterize"?▾

The IPA transcription of "characterize" is /ˈkæɹəktəɹaɪz/.

What does "characterize" mean?▾

Characterize: To depict someone or something a particular way (often negative).

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