How to Pronounce Distress

To pronounce "distress", say DISTR-ess — 2 syllables, IPA /dɪˈstɹɛs/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

distress

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Accent

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Speed

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2

Syllables

8

Letters

/dɪˈstɹɛs/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “distress”

"distress" has 2 syllables: distr-ess. It rhymes with nonetheless and nevertheless, if that helps it stick.

What does distress mean?

noun

  1. (Cause of) discomfort.
  2. Serious danger.

verb

  1. To cause strain or anxiety to someone.
  2. To retain someone’s property against the payment of a debt; to distrain.

Synonyms

ageantiquepatinateanguishharrowmartyrtantalisetantalize

Antonyms

eustress

Words that rhyme with distress

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

nonethelessneverthelesscoalesceacquiesceaddresscaressassessprocessegressexpressfinessepossess

Related words

worrytroublesufferinghurtilldistrainttroubledstricken

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "distress"?▾

"Distress" has 2 syllables: distr · ess.

What is the IPA transcription of "distress"?▾

The IPA transcription of "distress" is /dɪˈstɹɛs/.

What does "distress" mean?▾

Distress: (Cause of) discomfort.

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