How to Pronounce Semaphore

To pronounce "semaphore", say SEM-aph-or-e — 4 syllables, IPA /ˈsɛməfɔː/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

semaphore

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Accent

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4

Syllables

9

Letters

/ˈsɛməfɔː/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “semaphore”

"semaphore" has 4 syllables: sem-aph-or-e.

What does semaphore mean?

noun

  1. Any equipment used for visual signalling by means of flags, lights, or mechanically moving arms, which are used to represent letters of the alphabet, or words.
  2. A visual system for transmitting information using the above equipment; especially, by means of two flags held one in each hand, using an alphabetic and numeric code based on the position of the signaller's arms; flag semaphore.

verb

  1. To signal using, or as if using, a semaphore, with the implication that it is done nonverbally.

Related words

signalmutexlightinglightsignsignumsymbol

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "semaphore"?▾

"Semaphore" has 4 syllables: sem · aph · or · e.

What is the IPA transcription of "semaphore"?▾

The IPA transcription of "semaphore" is /ˈsɛməfɔː/.

What does "semaphore" mean?▾

Semaphore: Any equipment used for visual signalling by means of flags, lights, or mechanically moving arms, which are used to represent letters of the alphabet, or words.

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