How to Pronounce Tertiary

To pronounce "tertiary", say TERT-iary — 2 syllables, IPA /ˈtɜː.ʃi.ə.ɹiː/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

tertiary

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Accent

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Speed

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Syllables

Letters

/ˈtɜː.ʃi.ə.ɹiː/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “tertiary”

"tertiary" has 2 syllables: tert-iary. It rhymes with extraordinary and contemporary, if that helps it stick.

What does tertiary mean?

noun

Any item considered to be of third order.
A tertiary colour.

adjective

Of third rank or order; subsequent.
Possessing some quality in the third degree; especially having been subjected to the substitution of three atoms or radicals.
“a tertiary alcohol, amine, or salt”

Hear “tertiary” 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 tertiary

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

extraordinary contemporary contrary sanctuary solitary arbitrary wary ordinary tarry emissary carry ancillary

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "tertiary"?▾

"Tertiary" has 2 syllables: tert · iary.

What is the IPA transcription of "tertiary"?▾

The IPA transcription of "tertiary" is /ˈtɜː.ʃi.ə.ɹiː/.

What does "tertiary" mean?▾

Tertiary: Any item considered to be of third order.

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