How to Pronounce Unctuous

To pronounce "unctuous", say UNCT-uous — 2 syllables, IPA /ˈʌnktʃuəs/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

unctuous

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Accent

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2

Syllables

8

Letters

/ˈʌnktʃuəs/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “unctuous”

"unctuous" has 2 syllables: unct-uous.

What does unctuous mean?

adjective

  1. (of a liquid or substance) Oily or greasy.
  2. (of a wine, coffee, sauce, gravy etc.) Rich, lush, intense, with layers of concentrated, soft, velvety flavor.

Synonyms

oleaginoussaponaceousslimysavorouscreepyeffusivegroveling

Hear “unctuous” in real sentences

Real example sentences from Tatoeba (CC-BY) — tap to hear each one, or see it used on YouGlish.

Related words

oleaginousoilybutteryfulsomesmarmyinsincerepapsunguinous

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "unctuous"?▾

"Unctuous" has 2 syllables: unct · uous.

What is the IPA transcription of "unctuous"?▾

The IPA transcription of "unctuous" is /ˈʌnktʃuəs/.

What does "unctuous" mean?▾

Unctuous: (of a liquid or substance) Oily or greasy.

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