How to Pronounce Inspire

To pronounce "inspire", say INSP-ir-e — 3 syllables, IPA /ɪn.ˈspaɪə(ɹ)/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

inspire

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Accent

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Speed

Syllable by syllable — tap each one

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Syllables

Letters

/ɪn.ˈspaɪə(ɹ)/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “inspire”

"inspire" has 3 syllables: insp-ir-e. It rhymes with inquire and spire, if that helps it stick.

What does inspire mean?

verb

To infuse into the mind; to communicate to the spirit; to convey, as by a divine or supernatural influence; to disclose preternaturally; to produce in, as by inspiration.
To infuse into; to affect, as with a superior or supernatural influence; to fill with what animates, enlivens or exalts; to communicate inspiration to.
“Elders should inspire children with sentiments of virtue.”

Synonyms

beghast

Antonyms

expire

Hear “inspire” 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 inspire

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

inquire spire esquire fire twire require squire aspire expire quire perspire backfire

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "inspire"?▾

"Inspire" has 3 syllables: insp · ir · e.

What is the IPA transcription of "inspire"?▾

The IPA transcription of "inspire" is /ɪn.ˈspaɪə(ɹ)/.

What does "inspire" mean?▾

Inspire: To infuse into the mind; to communicate to the spirit; to convey, as by a divine or supernatural influence; to disclose preternaturally; to produce in, as by inspiration.

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