How to Pronounce Spy

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

spy

Tap to hear · American accent

Accent

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Speed

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1

Syllable

3

Letters

/spaɪ/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “spy”

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

What does spy mean?

noun

  1. A person who secretly watches and examines the actions of other individuals or organizations and gathers information on them (usually to gain an advantage).

verb

  1. To act as a spy.

    “During the Cold War, Russia and America would each spy on each other for recon.”

  2. To spot; to catch sight of.

    “I think I can spy that hot guy coming over here.”

Synonyms

intelligencer

Hear “spy” 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 spy

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

wryexemplifyrectifyhighlieapplyfortifyawrymollifyamplifynullifycry

Related words

descryespysnoopspotstagespionagesurveillanceagent

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "spy"?▾

"Spy" has one syllable.

What is the IPA transcription of "spy"?▾

The IPA transcription of "spy" is /spaɪ/.

What does "spy" mean?▾

Spy: A person who secretly watches and examines the actions of other individuals or organizations and gathers information on them (usually to gain an advantage).

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