How to Pronounce Pension

To pronounce "pension", say PENS-ion — 2 syllables, IPA /ˈpɛnʃ(ə)n/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

pension

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Accent

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Speed

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Syllables

Letters

/ˈpɛnʃ(ə)n/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “pension”

"pension" has 2 syllables: pens-ion. It rhymes with apprehension and contention, if that helps it stick.

What does pension mean?

noun

An annuity paid regularly as benefit due to a retired employee, serviceman etc. in consideration of past services, originally and chiefly by a government but also by various private pension schemes.
“Many old people depend on their pension to pay the bills.”
A boarding house or small hotel, especially in continental Europe, which typically offers lodging and certain meals and services.
“A pension had somewhat less to offer than a hotel; it was always smaller, and never elegant; it sometimes offered breakfast, and sometimes not (John Irving).”

verb

To grant a pension to.
To force (someone) to retire on a pension.

Synonyms

bed and breakfast hostel hotel rent superannuation pension off

Hear “pension” 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 pension

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

apprehension contention condescension convention comprehension retention dissension pretension tension dimension invention misapprehension

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "pension"?▾

"Pension" has 2 syllables: pens · ion.

What is the IPA transcription of "pension"?▾

The IPA transcription of "pension" is /ˈpɛnʃ(ə)n/.

What does "pension" mean?▾

Pension: An annuity paid regularly as benefit due to a retired employee, serviceman etc. in consideration of past services, originally and chiefly by a government but also by various private pension schemes.

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