How to Pronounce Decimation

To pronounce "decimation", say DEC-im-at-ion — 4 syllables, IPA /ˌdɛsɪˈmeɪʃən/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

decimation

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Accent

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4

Syllables

10

Letters

/ˌdɛsɪˈmeɪʃən/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “decimation”

"decimation" has 4 syllables: dec-im-at-ion. It rhymes with trepidation and indignation, if that helps it stick.

What does decimation mean?

noun

  1. (strictly) The killing or punishment of every tenth person, usually by lot.
  2. (generally) The killing or destruction of any large portion of a population.

Synonyms

tithingtithe

Hear “decimation” 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 decimation

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

trepidationindignationexhilarationvenerationelationcondemnationgratificationinclinationaspirationdesolationaffirmationrumination

Related words

destructiondepletiondecemuircentesimationdecimvirdecimdismeduodecimvir

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "decimation"?▾

"Decimation" has 4 syllables: dec · im · at · ion.

What is the IPA transcription of "decimation"?▾

The IPA transcription of "decimation" is /ˌdɛsɪˈmeɪʃən/.

What does "decimation" mean?▾

Decimation: (strictly) The killing or punishment of every tenth person, usually by lot.

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