How to Pronounce Mothball

To pronounce "mothball", say MOTHB-all — 2 syllables, IPA /mɒθbɔːl/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

mothball

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Accent

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Speed

Syllable by syllable — tap each one

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Syllables

Letters

/mɒθbɔːl/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “mothball”

"mothball" has 2 syllables: mothb-all. It rhymes with squall and banal, if that helps it stick.

What does mothball mean?

noun

(usually in plural) A small ball of chemical pesticide (typically naphthalene) and deodorant placed in or around clothing and other articles susceptible to damage from mold or moth larvae in order to protect them from this damage.

verb

To store or shelve something no longer used.
“They mothballed the old version after the new one came out.”
To stop using (something), but keep it in good condition.

Synonyms

defer set aside shelve store

Antonyms

demothball unmothball

Words that rhyme with mothball

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

squall banal appall pall call gall forestall recall stall protocol fall brawl

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "mothball"?▾

"Mothball" has 2 syllables: mothb · all.

What is the IPA transcription of "mothball"?▾

The IPA transcription of "mothball" is /mɒθbɔːl/.

What does "mothball" mean?▾

Mothball: (usually in plural) A small ball of chemical pesticide (typically naphthalene) and deodorant placed in or around clothing and other articles susceptible to damage from mold or moth larvae in order to protect them from this damage.

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