How to Pronounce Library

To pronounce "library", say LIBR-ary — 2 syllables, IPA /ˈɫaɪbɹɛˌɹi/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

library

Tap to hear · American accent

Accent

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Speed

Syllable by syllable — tap each one

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Syllables

Letters

/ˈɫaɪbɹɛˌɹi/

🇺🇸 IPA (US)

/lˈaɪbɹəɹi/

🇬🇧 IPA (UK)

💡 Tip for remembering “library”

"library" has 2 syllables: libr-ary. It rhymes with extraordinary and contemporary, if that helps it stick.

What does library mean?

noun

An institution which holds books and/or other forms of media for use by the public or qualified people often lending them out, as well as providing various other services for its users.
(by extension) Any institution that lends out its goods for use by the public or a community.

Synonyms

bookhouse

Hear “library” 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 library

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

extraordinary contemporary contrary sanctuary solitary arbitrary wary ordinary tarry emissary carry ancillary

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "library"?▾

"Library" has 2 syllables: libr · ary.

What is the IPA transcription of "library"?▾

The IPA transcription of "library" is /ˈɫaɪbɹɛˌɹi/.

What does "library" mean?▾

Library: An institution which holds books and/or other forms of media for use by the public or qualified people often lending them out, as well as providing various other services for its users.

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