How to Pronounce Restive

To pronounce "restive", say REST-iv-e — 3 syllables, IPA /ˈɹɛstɪv/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

restive

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Accent

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Speed

Syllable by syllable — tap each one

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Syllables

Letters

/ˈɹɛstɪv/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “restive”

"restive" has 3 syllables: rest-iv-e. It rhymes with suggestive and festive, if that helps it stick.

What does restive mean?

adjective

Impatient under delay, duress, or control.
Resistant to control; stubborn.

Synonyms

anxious champing at the bit fidgety restless uneasy balky disobedient rebellious

Hear “restive” 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 restive

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

suggestive festive digestive congestive esteve

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "restive"?▾

"Restive" has 3 syllables: rest · iv · e.

What is the IPA transcription of "restive"?▾

The IPA transcription of "restive" is /ˈɹɛstɪv/.

What does "restive" mean?▾

Restive: Impatient under delay, duress, or control.

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