How to Pronounce Purgatory

To pronounce "purgatory", say PURG-at-ory — 3 syllables, IPA /ˈpɜːɡətɹi/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

purgatory

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Accent

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3

Syllables

9

Letters

/ˈpɜːɡətɹi/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “purgatory”

"purgatory" has 3 syllables: purg-at-ory. It rhymes with repository and hoary, if that helps it stick.

What does purgatory mean?

noun

  1. Alternative letter-case form of Purgatory
  2. Any situation where suffering is endured, particularly as part of a process of redemption.

adjective

  1. Tending to cleanse; expiatory.

Words that rhyme with purgatory

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

repositoryhoaryquarryallegorydesultorytransitoryambulatoryglorydilatoryaleatoryterritoryobligatory

Related words

purgationindulgencepenanceredemptiondamnationpurificationcoredemptionredeeming

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "purgatory"?▾

"Purgatory" has 3 syllables: purg · at · ory.

What is the IPA transcription of "purgatory"?▾

The IPA transcription of "purgatory" is /ˈpɜːɡətɹi/.

What does "purgatory" mean?▾

Purgatory: Alternative letter-case form of Purgatory

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