How to Pronounce Hostility

To pronounce "hostility", say HOST-il-ity — 3 syllables, IPA /hɒˈstɪlɪti/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

hostility

Tap to hear · American accent

Accent

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Speed

Syllable by syllable — tap each one

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Syllables

Letters

/hɒˈstɪlɪti/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “hostility”

"hostility" has 3 syllables: host-il-ity. It rhymes with tranquility and capability, if that helps it stick.

What does hostility mean?

noun

The state of being hostile.
“My resentment and anger towards you caused hostility and a division between us.”
A hostile action, especially a military action. See hostilities for specific plural definition.

Synonyms

combat fighting war animosity antagonism antipathy enmity hatred

Antonyms

peace amity friendliness

Hear “hostility” 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 hostility

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

tranquility capability humility culpability futility volatility liability susceptibility virility facility sensibility vulnerability

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "hostility"?▾

"Hostility" has 3 syllables: host · il · ity.

What is the IPA transcription of "hostility"?▾

The IPA transcription of "hostility" is /hɒˈstɪlɪti/.

What does "hostility" mean?▾

Hostility: The state of being hostile.

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