How to Pronounce Uptight

To pronounce "uptight", say UPT-ight — 2 syllables, IPA /ʌpˈtaɪt/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

uptight

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Accent

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2

Syllables

7

Letters

/ʌpˈtaɪt/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “uptight”

"uptight" has 2 syllables: upt-ight. It rhymes with insight and light, if that helps it stick.

What does uptight mean?

noun

  1. An uptight person.

adjective

  1. Excessively concerned with rules and order, always serious.

    “Don't be so uptight! You won't go to jail for crossing the street against the light.”

  2. Emotionally repressed; nervous and tense.

Hear “uptight” 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 uptight

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

insightlightcontriteincitedelighteruditebrighttwilightreconditeforthrightplightacolyte

Related words

overstrungrestivehigh-strungnervyedgyjumpyjitterytense

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "uptight"?▾

"Uptight" has 2 syllables: upt · ight.

What is the IPA transcription of "uptight"?▾

The IPA transcription of "uptight" is /ʌpˈtaɪt/.

What does "uptight" mean?▾

Uptight: An uptight person.

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