How to Pronounce Protective

To pronounce "protective", say PROT-ect-iv-e — 4 syllables, IPA /pɹoʊtɛktɪv/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

protective

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Accent

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Speed

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4

Syllables

10

Letters

/pɹoʊtɛktɪv/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “protective”

"protective" has 4 syllables: prot-ect-iv-e. It rhymes with objective and perspective, if that helps it stick.

What does protective mean?

noun

  1. Something that protects.
  2. A condom.

adjective

  1. Serving, intended or wishing to protect

    “Mother bears are famously protective of their cubs.”

Words that rhyme with protective

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

objectiveperspectivecollectiveprospectivereflectiveeffectiveintrospectivedefectiveinvectivesubjectiveineffectiveretrospective

Related words

defensiveguardianconservingpreservingcustodialrestrictivetutelarytutelar

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "protective"?▾

"Protective" has 4 syllables: prot · ect · iv · e.

What is the IPA transcription of "protective"?▾

The IPA transcription of "protective" is /pɹoʊtɛktɪv/.

What does "protective" mean?▾

Protective: Something that protects.

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