How to Pronounce Perpendicular

To pronounce "perpendicular", say PERP-end-ic-ul-ar — 5 syllables, IPA /ˌpɜː.pənˈdɪk.jə.lə(ɹ)/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

perpendicular

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Accent

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Speed

Syllable by syllable — tap each one

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Syllables

Letters

/ˌpɜː.pənˈdɪk.jə.lə(ɹ)/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “perpendicular”

"perpendicular" has 5 syllables: perp-end-ic-ul-ar. It rhymes with particular and extracurricular, if that helps it stick.

What does perpendicular mean?

noun

A line or plane that is perpendicular to another.
A device such as a plumb line that is used in making or marking a perpendicular line.

adjective

At or forming a right angle (to something).
“In most houses, the walls are perpendicular to the floor.”
Exactly upright; extending in a straight line toward the centre of the earth, etc.

Synonyms

normal orthogonal

Hear “perpendicular” 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 perpendicular

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

particular extracurricular curricular vehicular testicular

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "perpendicular"?▾

"Perpendicular" has 5 syllables: perp · end · ic · ul · ar.

What is the IPA transcription of "perpendicular"?▾

The IPA transcription of "perpendicular" is /ˌpɜː.pənˈdɪk.jə.lə(ɹ)/.

What does "perpendicular" mean?▾

Perpendicular: A line or plane that is perpendicular to another.

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