How to Pronounce Proverbial

To pronounce "proverbial", say PROV-erb-ial — 3 syllables, IPA /pɹəˈvɜɹb.iː.əl/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

proverbial

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3

Syllables

10

Letters

/pɹəˈvɜɹb.iː.əl/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “proverbial”

"proverbial" has 3 syllables: prov-erb-ial. It rhymes with adverbial, if that helps it stick.

What does proverbial mean?

noun

  1. Used to replace a word that might be considered unacceptable in a particular situation, when using a well-known phrase.
  2. The groin or the testicles.

    “You'll find they've got you by the proverbials.”

adjective

  1. Of, resembling, or expressed as a proverb, cliché, fable, or fairy tale.
  2. Not used in a literal sense, but as the subject of a well-known metaphor.

    “proverbial spilled milk”

Words that rhyme with proverbial

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

adverbial

Related words

knownfabledlegendarywell-knownfamedrenownedfamouscelebrated

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "proverbial"?▾

"Proverbial" has 3 syllables: prov · erb · ial.

What is the IPA transcription of "proverbial"?▾

The IPA transcription of "proverbial" is /pɹəˈvɜɹb.iː.əl/.

What does "proverbial" mean?▾

Proverbial: Used to replace a word that might be considered unacceptable in a particular situation, when using a well-known phrase.

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