How to Pronounce Grotesque

To pronounce "grotesque", say GROT-esq-ue — 3 syllables, IPA /ɡɹəʊˈtɛsk/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

grotesque

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Accent

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3

Syllables

9

Letters

/ɡɹəʊˈtɛsk/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “grotesque”

"grotesque" has 3 syllables: grot-esq-ue. It rhymes with statuesque and burlesque, if that helps it stick.

What does grotesque mean?

noun

  1. A style of ornamentation characterized by fanciful combinations of intertwined forms.
  2. Anything grotesque.

adjective

  1. Distorted and unnatural in shape or size; abnormal and hideous.
  2. Disgusting or otherwise viscerally revolting.

Hear “grotesque” 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 grotesque

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

statuesqueburlesquedeskromanesqueesqueautodeskbeskegeskejeskekafkaesque

Related words

monstrousstrangeuglyunusualanticfantasticalfantasticunnatural

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "grotesque"?▾

"Grotesque" has 3 syllables: grot · esq · ue.

What is the IPA transcription of "grotesque"?▾

The IPA transcription of "grotesque" is /ɡɹəʊˈtɛsk/.

What does "grotesque" mean?▾

Grotesque: A style of ornamentation characterized by fanciful combinations of intertwined forms.

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