How to Pronounce Hesitate

To pronounce "hesitate", say HES-it-at-e — 4 syllables, IPA /ˈhɛzɪteɪt/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

hesitate

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Accent

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Speed

Syllable by syllable — tap each one

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4

Syllables

8

Letters

/ˈhɛzɪteɪt/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “hesitate”

"hesitate" has 4 syllables: hes-it-at-e. It rhymes with elucidate and articulate, if that helps it stick.

What does hesitate mean?

verb

  1. To stop or pause respecting decision or action; to be in suspense or uncertainty as to a determination.

    “He hesitated whether to accept the offer or not; men often hesitate in forming a judgment.”

  2. To stammer; to falter in speaking.

Synonyms

balbucinatebalbutiatefalterhawhemstammerstutterdemur

Words that rhyme with hesitate

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

elucidatearticulatedesolatefacilitateprofligateexplicatedeliberatedelineateruminateinnatecultivatestate

Related words

waverpausevacillatefaltershydoubtprocrastinatedelay

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "hesitate"?▾

"Hesitate" has 4 syllables: hes · it · at · e.

What is the IPA transcription of "hesitate"?▾

The IPA transcription of "hesitate" is /ˈhɛzɪteɪt/.

What does "hesitate" mean?▾

Hesitate: To stop or pause respecting decision or action; to be in suspense or uncertainty as to a determination.

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