How to Pronounce Jitterbug

To pronounce "jitterbug", say JITT-erb-ug — 3 syllables, IPA /ˈd͡ʒɪtə(ɹ)bʌɡ/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

jitterbug

Tap to hear · American accent

Accent

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Speed

Syllable by syllable — tap each one

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Syllables

Letters

/ˈd͡ʒɪtə(ɹ)bʌɡ/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “jitterbug”

"jitterbug" has 3 syllables: jitt-erb-ug. It rhymes with snug and smug, if that helps it stick.

What does jitterbug mean?

noun

A one-stringed instrument (monochord) that consists of a wire string attached to something solid like the side of a house, and played with a piece of metal or glass, originating in the African American traditional music of Mississippi in the United States.

noun

A nervous or jittery person.
A jazz musician or aficionado.

verb

To dance the jitterbug.

Synonyms

jitterbug jazzbo jazzman jazzperson bundle of nerves nervous wreck worrywart

Words that rhyme with jitterbug

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

snug smug slug bug plug jug tug sprig mug hug humbug firebug

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "jitterbug"?▾

"Jitterbug" has 3 syllables: jitt · erb · ug.

What is the IPA transcription of "jitterbug"?▾

The IPA transcription of "jitterbug" is /ˈd͡ʒɪtə(ɹ)bʌɡ/.

What does "jitterbug" mean?▾

Jitterbug: A one-stringed instrument (monochord) that consists of a wire string attached to something solid like the side of a house, and played with a piece of metal or glass, originating in the African American traditional music of Mississippi in the United States.

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