How to Pronounce Elbow

To pronounce "elbow", say ELB-ow — 2 syllables, IPA /ˈɛl.bəʊ/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

elbow

Tap to hear · American accent

Accent

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Speed

Syllable by syllable — tap each one

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Syllables

Letters

/ˈɛl.bəʊ/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “elbow”

"elbow" has 2 syllables: elb-ow. It rhymes with apropos and show, if that helps it stick.

What does elbow mean?

noun

The joint between the upper arm and the forearm.
(by extension) Any turn or bend like that of the elbow, in a wall, building, coastline, etc.; an angular or jointed part of any structure, such as the raised arm of a chair or sofa, or a short pipe fitting, turning at an angle or bent.
“the sides of windows, where the jamb makes an elbow with the window back”

verb

To push with the elbow.
“He elbowed his way through the crowd.”
(by extension) To nudge, jostle or push.

Hear “elbow” 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 elbow

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

apropos show flow fallow although low bestow glow afterglow throw grotto beau

Related words

cubitus neck arm hand shoulder toe prod

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "elbow"?▾

"Elbow" has 2 syllables: elb · ow.

What is the IPA transcription of "elbow"?▾

The IPA transcription of "elbow" is /ˈɛl.bəʊ/.

What does "elbow" mean?▾

Elbow: The joint between the upper arm and the forearm.

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