How to Pronounce Self-defense

To pronounce "self-defense", say SELFD-ef-ens-e — 4 syllables. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

self-defense

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Accent

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4

Syllables

12

Letters

SELFD-ef-ens-e

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💡 Tip for remembering “self-defense”

"self-defense" has 4 syllables: selfd-ef-ens-e. It rhymes with self-defence, if that helps it stick.

Sounds exactly like: self-defence — easy to mix up when writing.

What does self-defense mean?

noun

  1. The means of defending oneself from physical attack.
  2. The right to protect oneself against violence by using reasonable force, which can be used as justification in several charges including murder, assault, and battery.

Words that rhyme with self-defense

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

self-defence

Related words

self-defenceself-protectiondefencedefensedefenddefensivevigilanterestraint

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "self-defense"?▾

"Self-defense" has 4 syllables: selfd · ef · ens · e.

What does "self-defense" mean?▾

Self-defense: The means of defending oneself from physical attack.

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