How to Pronounce Subordinate

To pronounce "subordinate", say SUB-ord-in-at-e — 5 syllables. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

subordinate

Tap to hear · American accent

Accent

If an accent sounds the same, your device is missing that voice — it falls back to the closest one.

Speed

Syllable by syllable — tap each one

Practice: Record & Compare

Record yourself saying subordinate, then compare with the target. Your audio stays on this device — nothing is uploaded.

Syllables

Letters

SUB-ord-in-at-e

Say it like

💡 Tip for remembering “subordinate”

"subordinate" has 5 syllables: sub-ord-in-at-e. It rhymes with elucidate and articulate, if that helps it stick.

What does subordinate mean?

noun

One who is subordinate.

verb

To make subservient.
To treat as of less value or importance.

adjective

Placed in a lower class, rank, or position.
Submissive or inferior to, or controlled by authority.

Synonyms

inferior junior report underling understrapper belittle denigrate dependent lesser

Antonyms

boss commander leader manager superior supervisor independent main

Hear “subordinate” 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 subordinate

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

elucidate articulate desolate facilitate profligate explicate deliberate delineate ruminate innate cultivate state

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "subordinate"?▾

"Subordinate" has 5 syllables: sub · ord · in · at · e.

What does "subordinate" mean?▾

Subordinate: One who is subordinate.

Want the definition, translations into 8 languages, and read-aloud for full sentences?

Open “subordinate” in the full dictionary →