How to Pronounce Cumbersome

To pronounce "cumbersome", say CUMB-ers-om-e — 4 syllables, IPA /ˈkʌmbɚsəm/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

cumbersome

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Accent

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Speed

Syllable by syllable — tap each one

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Syllables

Letters

/ˈkʌmbɚsəm/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “cumbersome”

"cumbersome" has 4 syllables: cumb-ers-om-e.

What does cumbersome mean?

adjective

Burdensome or hindering, as a weight or drag; vexatious
Not easily managed or handled; awkward; clumsy.
“Cumbersome machines can endanger operators and slow down production.”

Synonyms

cumbrous unwieldy

Hear “cumbersome” in real sentences

Real example sentences from Tatoeba (CC-BY) — tap to hear each one, or see it used on YouGlish.

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "cumbersome"?▾

"Cumbersome" has 4 syllables: cumb · ers · om · e.

What is the IPA transcription of "cumbersome"?▾

The IPA transcription of "cumbersome" is /ˈkʌmbɚsəm/.

What does "cumbersome" mean?▾

Cumbersome: Burdensome or hindering, as a weight or drag; vexatious

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