How to Pronounce Cocktail

To pronounce "cocktail", say COCKT-ail — 2 syllables, IPA /ˈkɒkteɪl/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

cocktail

Tap to hear · American accent

Accent

If an accent sounds the same, your device is missing that voice — it falls back to the closest one.

Speed

Syllable by syllable — tap each one

Practice: Record & Compare

Record yourself saying cocktail, then compare with the target. Your audio stays on this device — nothing is uploaded.

2

Syllables

8

Letters

/ˈkɒkteɪl/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “cocktail”

"cocktail" has 2 syllables: cockt-ail. It rhymes with wail and gale, if that helps it stick.

What does cocktail mean?

noun

  1. A mixed alcoholic beverage.
  2. A mixture of other substances or things.

    “Scientists found a cocktail of pollutants in the river downstream from the chemical factory.”

verb

  1. To adulterate (fuel, etc.) by mixing in other substances.
  2. To treat (a person) to cocktails.

    “He dined and cocktailed her at the most exclusive bars and restaurants.”

adjective

  1. Ostentatiously lacking in manners.

Synonyms

cktmixed drink

Words that rhyme with cocktail

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

wailgaleavailfrailassailtravailprevailentailstaleunveilailbale

Related words

appetizerdrinkglassshrimpbugstartershakemix

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "cocktail"?▾

"Cocktail" has 2 syllables: cockt · ail.

What is the IPA transcription of "cocktail"?▾

The IPA transcription of "cocktail" is /ˈkɒkteɪl/.

What does "cocktail" mean?▾

Cocktail: A mixed alcoholic beverage.

Want the definition, translations into 8 languages, and read-aloud for full sentences?

Open “cocktail” in the full dictionary →