How to Pronounce Sex

To pronounce "sex", say SEX — one syllable, IPA /sɛks/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

sex

Tap to hear · American accent

Accent

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Speed

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1

Syllable

3

Letters

/sɛks/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “sex”

"sex" is a single-syllable word — say it in one clean beat. It rhymes with complex and hex, if that helps it stick.

What does sex mean?

noun

  1. A category into which sexually-reproducing organisms are divided on the basis of their reproductive roles in their species.

    “The effect of the medication is dependent upon age, sex, and other factors.”

  2. Another category, especially of humans and especially based on sexuality or gender roles.

verb

  1. To determine the sex of an animal.
  2. To have sex with.

Synonyms

gender

Words that rhyme with sex

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

complexhexvertexannexmultiplexvexperplexeffectsconvexnextsimplexflex

Related words

sexualityarouseexcitegenderintercourse

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "sex"?▾

"Sex" has one syllable.

What is the IPA transcription of "sex"?▾

The IPA transcription of "sex" is /sɛks/.

What does "sex" mean?▾

Sex: A category into which sexually-reproducing organisms are divided on the basis of their reproductive roles in their species.

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