How to Pronounce Coal

To pronounce "coal", say COAL — one syllable, IPA /kɔʊl/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

coal

Tap to hear · American accent

Accent

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1

Syllable

4

Letters

/kɔʊl/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “coal”

"coal" is a single-syllable word — say it in one clean beat. It rhymes with control and soul, if that helps it stick.

Sounds exactly like: kohl, cole, colle, coale — easy to mix up when writing.

What does coal mean?

noun

  1. A black rock formed from prehistoric plant remains, composed largely of carbon and burned as a fuel.

    “Put some coal on the fire.”

  2. A piece of coal used for burning (this use is less common in American English)

    “Put some coals on the fire.”

verb

  1. To take on a supply of coal (usually of steam ships).
  2. To supply with coal.

    “to coal a steamer”

Words that rhyme with coal

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

controlsoulstrollcajoleshoalconsoletrollholegoalextolpigeonholeroll

Related words

charemberlignitecokecharcoalgascoalminemining

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "coal"?▾

"Coal" has one syllable.

What is the IPA transcription of "coal"?▾

The IPA transcription of "coal" is /kɔʊl/.

What does "coal" mean?▾

Coal: A black rock formed from prehistoric plant remains, composed largely of carbon and burned as a fuel.

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