Navigating the Spelling of Yacht: A Smooth Sailing Guide

yacht in spelling

The word "yacht" often raises eyebrows when it comes to spelling. This term, synonymous with luxury and leisure on the water, has a spelling that doesn't quite align with its pronunciation, leading many to second-guess themselves. In this article, we'll set sail through the correct spelling of "yacht," providing you with tips and examples to ensure that your writing journey is as smooth as a serene sea.

Understanding Yacht

A yacht is a type of boat or ship that is often used for pleasure, racing, or cruising. Originating from the Dutch word "jacht," which means "hunt," it was originally used to describe light, fast sailing vessels used to chase pirates. The transformation from "jacht" to "yacht" in English is where the spelling complexity lies.

The Spelling Challenge

The main challenge with "yacht" is its unorthodox spelling compared to its pronunciation. The 'ch' is silent, and there's no hint of the 't' in how it's spoken, which can lead to misspellings like "yatch," "yaght," or "yaht."

Tips for Spelling Yacht

  • Remember the Dutch origin: The 'cht' is a common Dutch spelling.
  • Silent 'ch': The 'ch' in yacht is not pronounced.
  • End with 't': Despite not being pronounced, it's always there.

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yacht in spelling

Examples in Context

Using "yacht" in sentences can help reinforce its correct spelling:

  • They spent the weekend sailing on a luxury yacht.
  • His dream was to circumnavigate the globe in a yacht.

Spelling Yacht Correctly

To ensure you always spell "yacht" correctly, consider these strategies:

  • Link to Its Origin : Remembering its Dutch origin can help with the 'cht.'
  • Visual Association : Associate the word with an image of a yacht, reinforcing the spelling.
  • Create a Mnemonic : Think of "You Always Can Have Tea" (Y-A-C-H-T).

Summary and Key Insights

Remember, spelling "yacht" correctly is all about understanding its origin and unique spelling pattern. It's a word that might not follow the usual rules, but with a bit of practice, it becomes easy to handle.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a common mistake when spelling "yacht".

A common mistake is spelling it as "yatch," reversing the 'a' and the 't.'

Can "yacht" refer to any boat?

No, a yacht specifically refers to a medium to large-sized boat used for leisure, racing, or cruising.

How can I easily remember the spelling of "yacht"?

Remember the silent 'ch' and the Dutch origin. A mnemonic like "You Always Can Have Tea" can also be helpful.

Why does "yacht" have a silent 'ch'?

The silent 'ch' in "yacht" comes from its Dutch origin, where such spellings are more common.

Is "yacht" spelled differently in other languages?

Yes, the spelling of "yacht" can vary in languages other than English, often aligning more closely with its pronunciation.

Mastering the spelling of "yacht" is like learning to navigate the high seas – it might seem daunting at first, but with the right knowledge and practice, it becomes second nature. Whether you're writing about maritime adventures or luxury travel, getting the spelling right is crucial. And for all your writing needs, from crafting engaging travel blogs to professional content, our expert content writing agency at Strategically is here to help, offering SEO content, unlimited revisions, and more to ensure your writing is as impressive as a sleek yacht gliding over the waves.

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Definition of 'yacht'

IPA Pronunciation Guide

yacht in British English

Yacht in american english, examples of 'yacht' in a sentence yacht, trends of yacht.

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Browse alphabetically yacht

  • Yablonovy Mountains
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  • All ENGLISH words that begin with 'Y'

Related terms of yacht

  • motor yacht
  • royal yacht
  • View more related words

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  • a vessel used for private cruising, racing, or other noncommercial purposes.

verb (used without object)

  • to sail, voyage, or race in a yacht.
  • a vessel propelled by sail or power, used esp for pleasure cruising, racing, etc
  • short for sand yacht ice yacht
  • intr to sail or cruise in a yacht

Other Words From

  • yachty adjective
  • super·yacht noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of yacht 1

Compare Meanings

How does yacht compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

  • yacht vs. sailboat

Example Sentences

As City News explained it, the bribes were paid not only in cash but through rugs, antiques, furniture, yacht club fees, boat repairs and more.

In Ashburn, Snyder is always lurking in spirit, even if he is on his 305-foot yacht somewhere in the Aegean.

Driving across country in a gigantic land yacht—with its crushed-velour seats and faux wood siding—was more practical than a two-door hot rod.

Host Jason Moore chats with experts who share tips harvested from their real-life experiences, such as a couple who paid off their $70,000 debt to travel full time and a woman who left her corporate job to work on a yacht.

Until Thursday, when federal agents escorted him off a 150-foot yacht moored in Long Island Sound, the word often used to describe Steve Bannon was “irrelevant.”

Instead the money allegedly was spent on luxury cars and a yacht club membership, among other things.

Loeb owns a $100 million penthouse on Central Park West and a $50 million yacht.

Solaire has set up charging capabilities at a project it built at a yacht club in Massachusetts, for example.

On my way back into town, I walked by the fortress of tents surrounding the harbor, readying for the yacht show.

Newly-minted Londoner, Lindsay Lohan, is currently chilling out on a yacht in Italy.

I heard her say to one of the servants once that my father had been lost on a yacht, and that he was oh, ever such a handsome man.

He owned a 54-ton yacht named the Opal, and attributed the wonderful health he enjoyed to his numerous sea voyages.

Another yacht had started from the old boathouse at about the time our friends and their new-fangled craft got under way.

Caermarthen ordered out his wonderful yacht, and hastened to complain to the King, who was then at Loo.

The yacht had long turned the head of the island and was beating down alongshore in the eastern bay.

Related Words

  • 1.1 Etymology
  • 1.2 Pronunciation
  • 1.3.1 Derived terms
  • 1.3.2 Translations
  • 1.4.1 Translations
  • 1.5 Anagrams
  • 2.1 Etymology
  • 2.2 Pronunciation
  • 2.4 Further reading
  • 3.1 Etymology
  • 3.2 Pronunciation
  • 3.4 References
  • 3.5 Further reading
  • 4.1 Etymology
  • 5.1 Etymology
  • 5.3 References
  • 6.1 Etymology
  • 6.3 References
  • 7.1 Alternative forms
  • 7.2 Etymology
  • 7.3.1 Declension
  • 7.3.2 Derived terms
  • 7.4 Further reading

yacht in spelling

Circa 1557; variant of yaught , earlier yeaghe ( “ light, fast-sailing ship ” ) , from Dutch jacht ( “ yacht; hunt ” ) , in older spelling jaght(e) , short for jaghtschip ( “ light sailing vessel, fast pirate ship ” , literally “ pursuit ship ” ) , compound of jacht and schip ( “ ship ” ) .

In the 16th century the Dutch built light, fast ships to chase the ships of pirates and smugglers from the coast. The ship was introduced to England in 1660 when the Dutch East India Company presented one to King Charles II, who used it as a pleasure boat, after which it was copied by British shipbuilders as a pleasure craft for wealthy gentlemen.

Pronunciation

  • ( UK ) enPR : yŏt , IPA ( key ) : /jɒt/
  • ( US ) enPR : yät , IPA ( key ) : /jɑːt/ , /jɑt/
Audio ( ): ( )
  • Rhymes: -ɒt

yacht ( plural yachts )

  • 1897 December (indicated as 1898 ), Winston Churchill , chapter X, in The Celebrity: An Episode , New York, N.Y.: The Macmillan Company ; London: Macmillan & Co., Ltd. , →OCLC : The skipper Mr. Cooke had hired at Far Harbor was a God-fearing man with a luke warm interest in his new billet and employer, and had only been prevailed upon to take charge of the yacht after the offer of an emolument equal to half a year's sea pay of an ensign in the navy.
  • 1907 August, Robert W[illiam] Chambers , chapter VI, in The Younger Set , New York, N.Y.: D. Appleton & Company , →OCLC : “I don’t mean all of your friends—only a small proportion—which, however, connects your circle with that deadly, idle, brainless bunch—the insolent chatterers at the opera,   [ … ] , the chlorotic squatters on huge yachts ,   [ … ] , the neurotic victims of mental cirrhosis, the jewelled animals whose moral code is the code of the barnyard—!"

Derived terms

  • motor yacht , motoryacht , MY
  • sailing yacht , steam yacht , SY
  • yacht person

Translations

        (yaḵt) (yaḵt)   (zbosanav)   (jáxta)     (jáhta)   (rwakhle)   (tsiyu)   (yóutǐng)           ,     ,     ,         (iaxṭa)     ,         (giot),     (thalamigós)     (yakhta) (yāxṭ)           ,       (yotto) (äxta) (tuuk kɑmsaan) (yoteu) (yahta)   (hư̄a bai)         (jahta) (darvuult ongoc)         (yât)                 (jáxta)   ,                   ,   (rʉʉa-bai), ,       (jáxta)     ,
    (jahta)         ,         (thalamigós)     (yakhta)     (fune),   (bōto)   ,  

yacht ( third-person singular simple present yachts , present participle yachting , simple past and past participle yachted )

  • ( intransitive ) To sail , voyage , or race in a yacht .
(darvuult ongocoor javax)
  • Cathy , tachy , tachy- , yatch

Borrowed from English yacht , from Dutch jacht .

  • IPA ( key ) : /jɔt/ , /jot/ , ( Canada ) /jat/
Audio: ( )

yacht   m ( plural yachts )

Further reading

  • “ yacht ”, in Trésor de la langue française informatisé [ Digitized Treasury of the French Language ] , 2012 .

Unadapted borrowing from English yacht .

  • IPA ( key ) : /ˈjɔt/ [ 1 ]
  • Rhymes: -ɔt

yacht   m ( invariable )

  • the letter Y in the Italian spelling alphabet
  • ^ yacht in Luciano Canepari , Dizionario di Pronuncia Italiana (DiPI)
  • yacht in Treccani.it – Vocabolario Treccani on line , Istituto dell'Enciclopedia Italiana

Borrowed from English yacht .

yacht   ? ( plural yachts )

  • ( Jersey ) yacht

Norwegian Bokmål

From Dutch jacht , via English yacht .

yacht   m ( definite singular yachten , indefinite plural yachter , definite plural yachtene )

  • “yacht” in The Bokmål Dictionary .

Norwegian Nynorsk

yacht   m ( definite singular yachten , indefinite plural yachtar , definite plural yachtane )

  • “yacht” in The Nynorsk Dictionary .

Alternative forms

yacht   c

Declension of  
Singular Plural
Indefinite Definite Indefinite Definite
Nominative
Genitive
  • yacht in Svenska Akademiens ordlista ( SAOL )
  • yacht in Svensk ordbok ( SO )
  • yacht in Svenska Akademiens ordbok ( SAOB )
  • yacht in Svenskt nautiskt lexikon (1920)

yacht in spelling

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Yacht or Yatch – Which is Correct?

  • by Sarah Thompson
  • March 4, 2024

Ah, the world of boats and sailing, where the wind carries you effortlessly over the sparkling blue waters. Whether you are a sailing enthusiast or just a curious observer, you might have come across some confusion regarding the spelling of the word “yacht.” Is it “yacht” or “yatch”? Let me clear up this perplexing matter once and for all.

The correct spelling is “yacht.” Yes, that’s right – the word is spelt with a ‘c’ in place of that tantalizing ‘t.’ It might seem counterintuitive, considering the pronunciation of the word, but trust me, it is the way to go. So why do so many people mistakenly spell it as “yatch”?

One possible reason for this common misspelling is that the combination of letters ‘acht’ in some languages, such as Dutch and German, is pronounced as ‘ackt.’ For instance, in German, ‘nacht’ is pronounced as ‘nackt.’ So, it is understandable that individuals with a background in these languages might confuse the spelling. However, in English, the ‘ach’ combination usually results in the ‘ack’ sound, as in ‘march’ or ‘attach.’

To further solidify the correct spelling, let’s dive into some examples:

1. “He sailed his sleek yacht across the Mediterranean.” Not “yatch” but “yacht.” This sentence showcases the proper spelling and usage of the word.

2. “My friend invited me to join him on his luxurious yacht for a weekend getaway.” Again, “yacht” is the correct spelling in this context.

3. “She dreamt of a life of elegance and glamour, cruising on a majestic yacht.” No “yatch” here either, just “yacht.”

Interestingly, the word “yacht” has its roots in the Dutch word “jacht,” meaning “hunt” or “chase.” Originally, yachts were vessels utilized by the Dutch navy to pursue pirates and engage in naval battles. However, over time, they morphed into the luxurious, pleasure-seeking vessels we associate with the word today.

These elegant boats are often associated with opulence, high society, and the leisurely lifestyles of the rich and famous. From James Bond’s suave adventures on the superyacht ‘Tiger Tanaka’ in “You Only Live Twice” to Jay-Z and Beyoncé’s extravagant yacht vacations, these vessels epitomize luxury and extravagance. So, it is important to get the spelling right when describing these vessels to maintain that air of sophistication.

In conclusion, the correct spelling of the word is “yacht.” Avoid the common mistake of spelling it as “yatch.” Remember, even though the pronunciation of the word may not match its spelling, the ‘c’ is necessary to maintain the correct form. So, next time you admire these magnificent sea-faring vessels, you can do so with confidence, knowing that you have mastered the spelling of “yacht.” Now, let’s set sail and explore the world of correct English spelling together!

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How To Spell yacht ?

How to pronounce yacht.

Correct pronunciation for the word "yacht" is [jˈɒt], [jˈɒt], [j_ˈɒ_t].

Definition of yacht

A swift-sailing, light, and elegantly furnished vessel, used either for private parties of pleasure, or as a vessel of state to convey princes, &c., from one place to another.
To sail in a yacht.

Nuttall's Standard dictionary of the English language By Nuttall, P.Austin

What are the misspellings for yacht?

What are similar-sounding words for yacht, what is the present tense of yacht.

  • In the present tense, the personal forms of the verb " yacht " are:
  • - You yacht
  • - He yachts
  • - She yachts
  • - It yachts
  • - They yacht

What is the past tense of Yacht?

  • The personal forms of the verb " yacht " in the past tense are as follows:
  • 1. I yachted
  • 2. You yachted
  • 3. He yachted
  • 4. She yachted
  • 5. It yachted
  • 6. We yachted
  • 7. You yachted
  • 8. They yachted

What is the adverb for yacht?

The adverb form of the word "yacht" is "yachtingly" .

What is the adjective for yacht?

The adjective form of the word "yacht" is "yachting" .

Usage over time for yacht:

This graph shows how "yacht" have occurred between 1800 and 2008 in a corpus of English books.

What is the plural form of yacht?

The plural of the "yacht" can be the " yachts ".

What is the singular form of yacht?

The singular of the "yacht" can be the "yacht".

Synonyms for Yacht:

  • aircraft carrier
  • cabin cruiser
  • fishing boat

Nearby words

  • Yacca Podocarp
  • yacht chair
  • yacht clubs
  • Correct spelling for yacht [Infographic] | Spellchecker.net
  • yacht - English spelling dictionary
  • Yacht | Definition of yacht by Merriam-Webster
  • Yacht definition and meaning | Collins English Dictionary
  • Yacht | Definition of yacht at Dictionary.com
  • Yacht dictionary definition | yacht defined

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Yacht - correct spelling, this grammar.com article is about yacht - correct spelling — enjoy your reading.

yacht in spelling

noun and verb Example: His yacht cost a fortune. noun Example: He likes to yacht throughout the Caribbean. verb

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Definition of yacht noun from the Oxford Advanced American Dictionary

yacht in spelling

  • Yacht Management
  • Yacht Delivery
  • Yacht Crew Placement
  • Yacht Charters
  • Yacht Provisioning
  • Yacht Restorations
  • Yacht Maintenance Contracts
  • Yacht General Repairs
  • Yacht Electrical Installation
  • Yacht Re Power
  • Yacht Emergency Response
  • Yacht Financial Administration
  • Yacht Technical Support
  • Yacht 100 hour Service
  • Yacht Ozone treatment
  • Yacht Linen Service
  • Yacht Membership
  • Affiliation

Spelling certain English words can often be a perplexing task, especially when their pronunciation doesn’t clearly match their spelling. One such word that frequently baffles both native and non-native speakers alike is “yacht.” This term, which refers to a large and often luxurious boat primarily used for recreation, originates from the Dutch word “jacht” meaning “hunt.” Despite its straightforward pronunciation—”yot”—the spelling is far from intuitive. This guide aims to demystify the process of spelling “yacht,” exploring its etymology, common pitfalls, and tips to remember its correct form. Whether you’re writing about nautical adventures or simply expanding your vocabulary, mastering the spelling of “ yacht ” is a small but significant step in enhancing your English language skills.

a Yacht

Understanding the Word ‘Yacht’

A ‘yacht’ is more than just a vessel; it embodies a lifestyle of luxury, adventure, and prestige. To truly appreciate this esteemed term, it’s essential to delve into its definition, origin, and rich history.

Definition of ‘Yacht’

At its core, a ‘yacht’ refers to a recreational watercraft primarily used for pleasure cruising or racing. Unlike commercial ships, yachts are typically privately owned and are synonymous with opulence and sophistication. They come in various sizes, ranging from small sailing yachts to sprawling motor yachts equipped with lavish amenities.

Origin and History

The word ‘yacht’ traces its roots back to the Dutch language, where it initially appeared as ‘jacht,’ meaning “hunt” or “chase.” In the 16th century, Dutch naval vessels known as ‘jachts’ were sleek and nimble, designed for speed and agility rather than combat. These vessels were favored by the wealthy elite for leisurely pursuits such as pleasure cruising and hunting trips.

As maritime culture flourished in Europe, the term ‘yacht’ gradually evolved to encompass a broader range of recreational vessels. By the 18th century, yachting had become a popular pastime among the aristocracy, with regattas and sailing competitions attracting participants from across the continent.

Breaking Down the Spelling

The spelling of the word ‘yacht’ may appear straightforward at first glance, but its unique combination of consonants and vowel sounds can pose challenges for many. Let’s break down the intricacies of its spelling, explore its phonetics, and address common misspellings.

Phonetics of ‘Yacht’

The phonetics of ‘ yacht ‘ involve a series of consonant clusters and vowel sounds that create its distinctive pronunciation. Here’s a breakdown:

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  • /j/: The word begins with the consonant sound /j/, similar to the ‘y’ sound in ‘yes’ or ‘yellow.’
  • /ɒ/: The next sound is the short ‘a’ vowel sound, represented by /ɒ/ in the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). This sound is often pronounced as ‘ah,’ as in ‘father’ or ‘balm.’
  • /k/: Following the vowel sound is the consonant /k/, produced by closing the back of the throat.
  • /t/: The final consonant sound is /t/, formed by tapping the tongue against the alveolar ridge behind the upper front teeth.

When pronounced together, these phonetic elements create the word ‘yacht,’ with emphasis on the initial ‘y’ sound followed by a short ‘ah’ sound and a crisp ‘t’ at the end.

Common Misspellings

Despite its relatively simple appearance, ‘yacht’ is frequently misspelled due to its unconventional phonetics and similarities to other words. Common misspellings include:

Yaht: This misspelling often occurs due to the phonetic similarity between ‘yacht’ and ‘yaht,’ where the silent ‘c’ is omitted.

  • Yacth: The addition of an extra ‘h’ after the ‘t’ is a common error, likely influenced by the pronunciation of the word.
  • Yatch: Here, the substitution of ‘t’ with ‘ch’ reflects a misunderstanding of the word’s phonetics.
  • Yahct: This misspelling may result from a typographical error or confusion regarding the order of letters.

By understanding the phonetics of ‘yacht’ and recognizing common misspellings, individuals can confidently navigate the complexities of spelling this iconic term, ensuring accuracy and clarity in both written and verbal communication.

Why ‘Yacht’ is Tricky to Spell

The word ‘yacht’ is notorious for its trickiness in spelling, mainly due to several factors, including the presence of silent letters in English and the influence of different languages on its evolution.

Silent Letters in English

English is renowned for its abundance of silent letters, which often confound spellers and learners alike. In the case of ‘yacht,’ the silent letter is the ‘c’ nestled between the ‘a’ and the ‘h.’ Unlike in other languages where every letter is typically pronounced, English incorporates silent letters for various historical and linguistic reasons.

The silent ‘c’ in ‘yacht’ dates back to the word’s Dutch origins, where it was originally spelled as ‘jacht.’ Over time, as the term was adopted into English, the pronunciation shifted while the spelling remained, resulting in the silent ‘c.’ This phenomenon is not uncommon in English and adds to the complexity of spelling certain words.

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Influence of Different Languages

Another reason why ‘yacht’ is tricky to spell lies in the influence of different languages on its evolution. The word ‘yacht’ originated from the Dutch word ‘jacht,’ which referred to a fast, light sailing vessel used for hunting or pleasure. As the concept of yachting spread across Europe, the term was assimilated into various languages, each contributing to its unique pronunciation and spelling.

For instance, the transition from ‘jacht’ to ‘yacht’ involved phonetic adaptations to suit the English language’s pronunciation patterns. However, while the pronunciation evolved, the spelling retained remnants of its Dutch roots, including the silent ‘c.’ This blending of linguistic elements from multiple languages contributed to the word’s complexity in spelling.

Tips to Remember the Spelling

Spelling the word ‘yacht’ can be challenging, but with the right techniques, you can enhance your memory and master its spelling effortlessly. Here are some helpful tips, including mnemonics and visualization techniques, to aid in remembering the spelling of ‘yacht’:

  • Create a memorable phrase or sentence using the letters in ‘yacht.’ For example, “Yonder, a calm harbor treasures,” where each word corresponds to a letter in ‘yacht.’
  • Associate ‘yacht’ with a familiar word or phrase that shares similar spelling patterns. For instance, think of ‘yacht’ as ‘catch’ with a ‘y’ in front.
  • Break down the word into smaller, more manageable chunks. Focus on remembering ‘y,’ ‘a,’ ‘c,’ and ‘ht’ separately before putting them together to form ‘yacht.’

Visualization Techniques

  • Visualize the word ‘yacht’ written in your mind’s eye or imagine seeing it written on the side of a luxurious yacht sailing gracefully on the water.
  • Associate the word ‘yacht’ with images or scenes related to sailing or luxury, such as a pristine yacht gliding across crystal-clear waters or a glamorous party aboard a yacht.
  • Create flashcards with the word ‘yacht’ written on one side and an image or scene related to yachting on the other. Use these flashcards to reinforce your memory through visual cues.

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Practice Makes Perfect: Writing Exercises and Spelling Games

Improving spelling proficiency requires regular practice and engaging activities that reinforce learning in a fun and interactive way. Here are some writing exercises and spelling games designed to help sharpen spelling skills and enhance vocabulary:

Word Scramble

  • Create a list of words, including ‘yacht’ and other challenging terms.
  • Mix up the letters of each word and write the scrambled versions on one side of flashcards.
  • Challenge yourself or a friend to unscramble the words within a specified time limit.

Spelling Bee

  • Organize a spelling bee competition with friends, family, or classmates.
  • Compile a list of words, including ‘yacht’ and other commonly misspelled terms, at varying difficulty levels.
  • Take turns spelling out the words orally, with participants eliminated for incorrect spellings until a champion emerges.

Word Search

  • Create word search puzzles using vocabulary words, including ‘yacht,’ hidden within a grid of letters.
  • Challenge yourself to find and circle each word within the puzzle, testing both spelling and visual recognition skills.

Sentence Completion

  • Write incomplete sentences containing spelling words, such as “I dreamt of sailing on a luxurious ________.”
  • Fill in the blanks with the correct spellings of the missing words, including ‘yacht,’ to complete each sentence.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Spelling errors, including those involving the word ‘yacht,’ are commonplace in written communication. Understanding common mistakes and employing effective correction strategies can help improve spelling accuracy. Here are frequently seen errors and ways to avoid them:

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Confusion with Homophones

Error: Confusing ‘yacht’ with homophones like ‘yacht’ and ‘yaht.’

Correction Strategy: Pay attention to context and meaning to ensure the correct word is used. Practice distinguishing between homophones through repetition and exposure to varied sentence structures.

Phonetically Incorrect Spellings

Error: Misspelling ‘yacht’ based on its pronunciation, such as ‘yaht’ or ‘yacth.’

Correction Strategy: Familiarize yourself with the phonetic components of ‘yacht’ and practice spelling it phonetically. Break down the word into smaller segments (‘y,’ ‘a,’ ‘c,’ ‘ht’) to reinforce correct spelling.

Typographical Errors

Error: Accidentally typing ‘yacht’ with swapped letters or additional characters (‘yacth,’ ‘yathc’).

Correction Strategy: Proofread written text carefully, paying close attention to each letter. Use spelling and grammar checkers in word processing software to identify and correct typographical errors automatically.

The Role of Pronunciation in Spelling

Pronunciation plays a crucial role in spelling, as the sounds of words directly influence their written representations. Understanding the relationship between pronunciation and spelling can help improve spelling accuracy and reinforce language proficiency. Here’s how pronunciation links to spelling, along with a breakdown of the phonetic alphabet:

Linking Pronunciation to Spelling

  • Pronunciation provides clues to the arrangement of letters in a word, helping spellers make educated guesses about spelling patterns.
  • The sounds of individual phonemes guide the selection of corresponding letters or letter combinations in written words.
  • In languages like English with complex spelling rules and irregularities, mastering pronunciation aids in memorizing spelling patterns and exceptions.

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Phonetic Alphabet Breakdown

The International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) is a standardized system used to represent the sounds of human speech. Here’s a breakdown of the phonetic alphabet relevant to the word ‘yacht’:

  • /j/: Represents the initial consonant sound in ‘yacht,’ similar to the ‘y’ sound in ‘yes’ or ‘yellow.’
  • /ɒ/: Denotes the short ‘ah’ vowel sound heard in ‘yacht,’ as in ‘father’ or ‘balm.’
  • /k/: Indicates the consonant sound produced by closing the back of the throat, as in ‘kite’ or ‘cat.’
  • /t/: Represents the final consonant sound in ‘yacht,’ formed by tapping the tongue against the alveolar ridge behind the upper front teeth, similar to the ‘t’ sound in ‘tune’ or ‘tight.’

Understanding these phonetic elements and their corresponding symbols in the IPA can aid in linking pronunciation to spelling. By recognizing the sounds within words like ‘yacht,’ spellers can accurately transcribe them into written form, reinforcing the connection between spoken and written language.

Cultural Significance of Yachts

Yachts hold a special place in cultural history, literature, and art, symbolizing wealth, luxury, and adventure. Let’s explore the rich cultural significance of yachts, from their historical roots to their portrayal in literature and art:

Yachts in History

Yachts have a storied history dating back centuries, initially used as practical vessels for transportation and exploration. However, their cultural significance evolved as they became associated with the elite and affluent members of society. In the 17th and 18th centuries, yachts were favored by European aristocrats for leisurely pursuits such as pleasure cruising and racing. The opulent designs and extravagant features of these early yachts reflected the wealth and status of their owners, cementing their place as symbols of prestige and privilege.

Yachts in Literature and Art

Yachts have captured the imagination of writers, artists, and creators throughout history, appearing in various forms of literature and art as symbols of aspiration, freedom, and escape. In literature, yachts often serve as settings for tales of adventure, romance, and intrigue. Authors such as F. Scott Fitzgerald, Ernest Hemingway, and Agatha Christie have incorporated yachts into their works, depicting them as backdrops for lavish parties, clandestine affairs, and thrilling escapades.

In art, yachts have been depicted in paintings, sculptures, and other visual mediums, showcasing their elegance and allure. Artists like Claude Monet, Winslow Homer, and Edward Hopper have captured the beauty of yachts against scenic backdrops, portraying them as symbols of tranquility and sophistication. Yachts also feature prominently in maritime art, celebrating their role in exploration, trade, and maritime culture.

Contemporary Cultural Significance

In modern times, yachts continue to hold cultural significance as symbols of luxury, leisure, and lifestyle. From sleek sailing yachts to extravagant motor yachts, these vessels are coveted by the wealthy elite for their comfort, convenience, and status. Yachting has also emerged as a popular recreational activity, with enthusiasts enjoying sailing adventures, regattas, and yacht parties in picturesque locales around the world.

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Moreover, yachts play a role in contemporary culture through their portrayal in media, entertainment, and popular culture. Films, television shows, and advertisements often feature yachts as symbols of affluence and aspiration, further perpetuating their allure in the collective imagination.

In conclusion, the word ‘yacht’ transcends its mere lexical definition to embody a rich tapestry of cultural significance, historical heritage, and artistic inspiration. From its humble origins as a utilitarian vessel to its evolution into a symbol of opulence and adventure, the yacht has woven itself into the fabric of human civilization.

Through the annals of history, yachts have symbolized the affluence and extravagance of the elite, serving as floating palaces for leisurely pursuits and maritime exploration. Their presence in literature and art has further immortalized their allure, depicting yachts as settings for tales of romance, mystery, and grandeur.

In contemporary society, yachts continue to hold sway as symbols of luxury living, coveted by those who seek the ultimate expression of wealth and status. Yet, beyond their material trappings, yachts evoke a sense of freedom, escape, and communion with the sea, beckoning adventurers to embark on journeys of discovery and delight.

What is the origin of the word ‘yacht’?

The term ‘yacht’ originated from the Dutch word ‘jacht,’ which referred to fast, light sailing vessels used for pleasure cruising or hunting. Over time, the pronunciation and spelling evolved, leading to its current form.

What is the difference between a yacht and a boat?

While both yachts and boats are watercraft used for navigation, yachts are typically larger vessels designed for leisure cruising, racing, or luxury living. Yachts often feature luxurious amenities and are associated with wealth and prestige, whereas boats can vary in size and purpose.

How do you pronounce ‘yacht’?

‘Yacht’ is pronounced as /jɒt/ or “yaht,” with emphasis on the initial ‘y’ sound followed by a short ‘ah’ sound and a crisp ‘t’ at the end.

What is the plural form of ‘yacht’?

The plural form of ‘yacht’ is ‘yachts.’ When referring to multiple vessels of this type, simply add an ‘s’ to the end of the word.

Are there different types of yachts?

Yes, there are various types of yachts, including sailing yachts, motor yachts, luxury yachts, and expedition yachts. Each type caters to different preferences and purposes, ranging from sailing adventures to opulent cruising experiences.

Why does English have so many silent letters?

angry woman gesticulating

Was this all a joke?

You could be excused for thinking that much of English pronunciation was invented by a trickster god, one with a particularly cruel streak. After all, how else could we have come to a place where through doesn’t rhyme with though , enough doesn’t rhyme with lough , and cough doesn’t rhyme with hiccough ? We’re happy to tell you that there was no trickster god involved: there are reasons for why things are the way they are. Read on, and we’ll explain one of the great mysteries of our language: why so many of the letters seem to be just sitting around doing no work.

man sitting in a chair looking confused

Some letters are silent in English because they are part of sound combinations that are so uncommon that English speakers ultimately resist pronouncing them. Our language is a glutton, and it has taken words from an enormous number of other languages. Since we have words borrowed from languages that have different sound patterns, this results in English speakers pronouncing the words differently than in their languages of origin.

That’s why the m is silent in mnemonic , a word meaning “assisting memory” or “relating to memory.” Mnemonic came to English from Greek through Latin during the 1600s, when many words of Classical origin were introduced by scholarly writers.

It is documented that the m was pronounced before the n as recently as the late 1800s, and has since dropped away.

There are very few words in English that begin with ¬ mn , and most of them are rare words that share the ultimate Greek root of the word meaning “to remember,” including mneme (pronounced /NEE-mee/), mnestic , mnemotechnical , and the name of the Greek goddess of memory, Mnemosyne .

book of psalms

psychology, psalm, pseudo

There are thousands of English words with Greek roots, and most of these begin in a manner that looks pretty reasonable to many users of English (think of words beginning with anti , like antipathy ). However, there are others from Greek which begin with a pair (or more!) of consonants that English does not use so often. One of the more common cases of this is the combination ps , seen in words like psalm , psalter , and pseudo (which comes from the Greek word meaning “to lie” or “to cheat”).

Psychology and the words related to it are the most frequently encountered of these words, which are pronounced with an /s/ sound—the p is silent in English. In German and French, the p is pronounced, however, and sounded just before the s , and over a hundred years ago the editor of the Oxford English Dictionary made it known that he thought we should restore the /p/ in English pronunciation, too.

His recommendations were ignored.

pneumatic tubes

pneumatic, pneumonia

Another silent p is found immediately before the letter n in words like pneumatic and pneumonia .

These words came to English through Latin from the Greek word meaning “wind,” “breath,” “air,” or “spirit,” pneumatic means “relating to or using air” (such as tires on a car) and pneumonia refers to a disease of the lungs. Most of the English words you come across that begin with pneu - are going to directly relate to air (especially in medical or scientific contexts), but every once in a while one will sneak in with a slightly different type of meaning, as with pneumatology ("the study of spiritual beings or phenomena").

For words spelled with this pattern, the p is still pronounced in modern French.

picture of yacht taken from front

yacht, night, light

Yacht came to English from Dutch, and the Dutch pronounce the ch with a rasping sound from the back of the throat, a sound heard in German words like buch (“book”) and Scots words like loch (“lake”).

Linguists use the term velar fricative to describe this sound, with velar from the Latin word for “curtain” meaning the soft palate or the flap at the back of the roof of the mouth, and fricative from the Latin word meaning “to rub.” Since this sound isn’t part of conventional English phonetics today, the ch has become silent over time.

The same thing can be said for words that developed directly from Old English and are spelled with what is now a silent gh , like light, fright, night , and sight , which were originally pronounced with that raspy back-of-the-throat sound. The now-silent ch and gh in these words in fact represent the same former pronunciation, transcribed in different ways. In fact, the Dutch and German ancestors of sight and light and right were spelled with ch rather than gh .

molten landscape with cracks in the ground and lava showing through

Perhaps the oddest-looking collection of consonants at the beginning of an English word is the strange chth in chthonic , pronounced /THON-ik/, which comes from the Greek word meaning “earth” or “world” and is a fancy way to say “relating to the underworld” or “infernal.”

In Greek mythology, it referred to the realm of the dead, where spirits would reside in the afterlife, overseen by Hades, king of the underworld (and the underworld itself was sometimes called Hades ). Like the now-silent ch in yacht , the ch , originally produced as a rasping sound from the back of the throat, has vanished in modern English.

If you really like using this word, but think that it’s kind of weird that the first C gets all the attention while the C that comes at the end does all the actual work, you can instead use chthonian , which means the same thing.

woman with fancy shirt dancing confidently

Chutzpah was defined in jocular fashion by Leo Rosten in his 1968 book The Joys of Yiddish with this: “Chutzpah is that quality enshrined in a man who, having killed his mother and father, throws himself on the mercy of the court because he is an orphan.” Being a dictionary, we don’t really do jocular; our definition is “supreme self-confidence,” or “nerve, gall .”

One of the many words English has borrowed from Yiddish, chutzpah is spelled with the ch that is now usually pronounced as /h/, making the c silent. The ch stood for the rasping sound from the back of the throat that exists in many languages, but not English, so it has dropped away.

palm trees along city street

calm, palm, talk

We mostly don’t hear the L in words like palm and calm , and this is also a pronunciation that has changed. The “dark” sound of the letter L is one that can change the sound of the vowel that comes before it as it melts into the m . This is why the vowel sounds are different in word pairs like calm and cat and talk and tack .

(If you want to hear the difference between a "light" and "dark" L, say the word lull . The initial /L/ is "light", pronounced at the front of the mouth, while the final /L/ is "dark", spoken by raising the back of the tongue slightly.)

This is the same process that causes the sound of L to become a vowel sound in some Cockney accents, when a word like trouble is pronounced /TRUH-boe/ or in some pronunciations of help that don’t have a clear L sound.

girl making loser sign on her forehead with fingers shaped like an l

should, would, could

Yes, the L in should and would used to be pronounced (but no, you are not making a mistake in not pronouncing it now). These words would have rhymed with gold and told (consider how we pronounce shoulder and boulder ). Accounts by language commentators from the 1500s show that these Ls were pronounced in refined speech, but then dropped during the following century.

It seems likely that could didn’t have the L in either spelling or pronunciation; notice that its root, can doesn’t have an L whereas shall and will (the roots of should and would ) do. The thought is that the L in could was later added by analogy—rightly or wrongly—to make it better match with would and should .

man juggling knives

knife, knight, gnaw

The basic rule is: “word + time = change.” The initial kn or gn sounds in words like knife, knight , and gnaw were pronounced several hundred years ago. Over time, the sound clusters have simplified into the single /n/ sound that we know (ahem) today. There isn’t necessarily a reason or any logic attached to all of these changes; in fact, if the spellings of these words didn’t fossilize the original way that they were pronounced, we wouldn’t have any reason to think about this kind of phonetic change.

smiling woman wrapping presents

wrap, write

Once upon a time the W in words like wrap and write was pronounced. Today we don’t hear it, and this time the reason is partially anatomical and not just phonetic (when we say the reason you don’t hear this is anatomical it is because of the shape of your lips, and not of your ears; your ears are just fine).

When you make the /r/ sound in modern English, your lips protrude a bit (say “ruh”) just as they do when you pronounce a /w/ sound (say “wuh”). Since these two sounds are made in ways that have physically similar lip positions and sounds that are difficult to distinguish when you say one right after the other, they eventually merged together.

girl listens to a seashell at the beach

soften, listen, often

The /t/ in words like soften, hasten , and fasten was originally pronounced, after the -en was added to the words soft, haste , and fast . Listen is a bit different, since it comes from from the Middle English word listnen , and evidence suggests that Middle English speakers wouldn’t pronounce /t/ when it was stuck between /s/ and /n/. (This may seem like a lot of history for a simple spelling explainer, but isn’t it nice to know that people who spoke Middle English many hundreds of years ago had to wrestle with tricky silent letters as well?)

Is the t in these words always silent, though? The t in often is in fact sometimes pronounced. Like the others in this category, it had been pronounced initially, and, also like the others, we hear the /t/ in the word’s root oft , which is now archaic for most of the senses of often , but is still used in compound adjectives like oft-repeated and oft-quoted . Ofttimes and oftentimes also have that archaic flavor but are still in active use. After the -en suffix was added to oft , the /t/ fell away in pronunciation, but remained in the spelling.

But in this case, the /t/ came back via a spelling-influenced pronunciation in the 1600s, as both literacy and printing expanded rapidly in England. There is evidence that Queen Elizabeth herself did not pronounce the /t/, resulting in the establishment of the prestige pronunciation for often that remains to this day (although pronouncing the t in often is by now a standard choice).

woman holding a paper receipt

receipt, debt, indict

An artificial evolution is visible in the silent letters of words like receipt, debt , and indict . These words entered English from French in the medieval period, but later scholars recognized their Latin origins and stuck in the missing p, b , and c , just to make the etymological relationship completely explicit. The way we pronounce these words to this day reflects their French heritage (while their spelling reflects their more distant Latin roots). Other silent letters that scholars have snuck in to help English show off its Latin roots include the b in doubt and the l in balm .

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What does the noun yacht mean?

There is one meaning in OED's entry for the noun yacht . See ‘Meaning & use’ for definition, usage, and quotation evidence.

Entry status

OED is undergoing a continuous programme of revision to modernize and improve definitions. This entry has not yet been fully revised.

How common is the noun yacht ?

How is the noun yacht pronounced?

British english, u.s. english, where does the noun yacht come from.

Earliest known use

The earliest known use of the noun yacht is in the late 1500s.

OED's earliest evidence for yacht is from before 1584, in the writing of S. Borough.

yacht is a borrowing from Dutch.

Etymons: Dutch jaght(e .

Nearby entries

  • yabber, v. 1841–
  • yabbering, n. 1839–
  • yabble, n. 1827–
  • yabble, v. 1808–
  • yabbler, n. 1901–
  • yabby, n. 1887–
  • yabby, v. 1941–
  • yabbying, n. 1934–
  • yabu, n. 1753–
  • yacca, n. 1843–
  • yacht, n. a1584–
  • yacht, v. 1836–
  • yacht basin, n. 1929–
  • yacht broker, n. 1882–
  • yachtdom, n. 1901–
  • yachter, n. 1828–
  • yachtery, n. 1861–
  • yachtian, n. 1842–
  • yachtie, n. 1874–
  • yachting, n. 1836–
  • yachting, adj. 1847–

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Meaning & use

Pronunciation, compounds & derived words, entry history for yacht, n..

yacht, n. was first published in 1921; not yet revised.

yacht, n. was last modified in July 2023.

Revision of the OED is a long-term project. Entries in oed.com which have not been revised may include:

  • corrections and revisions to definitions, pronunciation, etymology, headwords, variant spellings, quotations, and dates;
  • new senses, phrases, and quotations which have been added in subsequent print and online updates.

Revisions and additions of this kind were last incorporated into yacht, n. in July 2023.

Earlier versions of this entry were published in:

OED First Edition (1921)

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  • View yacht, n. in OED Second Edition

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Citation details

Factsheet for yacht, n., browse entry.

Cambridge Dictionary

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English pronunciation of yacht

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(English pronunciations of yacht from the Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary & Thesaurus and from the Cambridge Academic Content Dictionary , both sources © Cambridge University Press)

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IMAGES

  1. Correct spelling for yacht [Infographic]

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  3. Correct spelling for yacht [Infographic]

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  4. How To Spell Yacht (And How To Misspell It Too)

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  5. Spelling Game for Kids. Cute Cartoon Yacht. Stock Vector

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  6. Yacht Spelling Guide: Tips to Spell Yacht Correctly

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COMMENTS

  1. Yacht Definition & Meaning

    yacht: [noun] any of various recreational watercraft: such as. a sailboat used for racing. a large usually motor-driven craft used for pleasure cruising.

  2. YACHT

    YACHT definition: 1. a boat with sails and sometimes an engine, used for either racing or travelling on for pleasure…. Learn more.

  3. Yacht Spelling Guide: Tips to Spell Yacht Correctly

    The word "yacht" often raises eyebrows when it comes to spelling. This term, synonymous with luxury and leisure on the water, has a spelling that doesn't quite align with its pronunciation, leading many to second-guess themselves. In this article, we'll set sail through the correct spelling of "yacht," providing you with tips and examples to ...

  4. YACHT

    YACHT meaning: 1. a boat with sails and sometimes an engine, used for either racing or travelling on for pleasure…. Learn more.

  5. YACHT definition and meaning

    3 meanings: 1. a vessel propelled by sail or power, used esp for pleasure cruising, racing, etc 2. → short for sand yacht, ice.... Click for more definitions.

  6. YACHT Definition & Meaning

    Yacht definition: a vessel used for private cruising, racing, or other noncommercial purposes.. See examples of YACHT used in a sentence.

  7. Yatch or Yacht

    By associating the word "yummy" with the letter "y" and the word "cool" with the "ch" sound, you can remember the correct spelling and pronunciation. In conclusion, the correct spelling of this luxurious boat is "yacht." The word has a rich history and is widely recognized in the English language.

  8. yacht

    Circa 1557; variant of yaught, earlier yeaghe (" light, fast-sailing ship "), from Dutch jacht (" yacht; hunt "), in older spelling jaght(e), short for jaghtschip (" light sailing vessel, fast pirate ship ", literally " pursuit ship "), compound of jacht and schip (" ship ").. In the 16th century the Dutch built light, fast ships to chase the ships of pirates and smugglers ...

  9. Yacht or Yatch

    Again, "yacht" is the correct spelling in this context. 3. "She dreamt of a life of elegance and glamour, cruising on a majestic yacht.". No "yatch" here either, just "yacht.". Interestingly, the word "yacht" has its roots in the Dutch word "jacht," meaning "hunt" or "chase.". Originally, yachts were vessels ...

  10. yacht noun

    a sailing boat, often also with an engine and a place to sleep on board, used for pleasure trips and racing. a 12-metre racing yacht; a yacht club/race; compare dinghy Topics Transport by water b2, Sports: water sports b2

  11. How To Spell Yacht (And How To Misspell It Too)

    Definition of yacht. A swift-sailing, light, and elegantly furnished vessel, used either for private parties of pleasure, or as a vessel of state to convey princes, &c., from one place to another. To sail in a yacht. Nuttall's Standard dictionary of the English language By Nuttall, P.Austin.

  12. yacht

    yacht - correct spelling This Grammar.com article is about yacht - correct spelling — enjoy your reading! 5 sec read 4,396 Views Ed Good — Grammar Tips. Font size: noun and verb Example: His yacht cost a fortune. noun Example: He likes to yacht throughout the Caribbean. verb ...

  13. yacht noun

    Definition of yacht noun in Oxford Advanced American Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

  14. YACHT

    YACHT definition: a large boat with sails used for pleasure or in races: . Learn more.

  15. Yacht or Yatch

    A sailing boat equipped for cruising or racing Examples: He bought a yacht and taught himself to sail A yacht club Yacht Verb. Definition: Race or cruise in a yacht Examples: Synonyms: Yacht Boat Go sailing FAQ's. Is it yatch or yacht? The correct word is yacht ...

  16. How to spell yacht? Is it yact or yaght?

    they sailed away on their yacht and lived happily ever after Other users have misspelled yacht as: yact - 5.7%; yaght - 3.4%; Other - 90.8%; Other misspelled words. website. bicycle. breakfast. queasy. eagle. aesthetics. dam. cigarette. deuces. accommodate. See all misspelled words

  17. How To Spell Yacht?

    One such word that frequently baffles both native and non-native speakers alike is "yacht." This term, which refers to a large and often luxurious boat primarily used for recreation, originates from the Dutch word "jacht" meaning "hunt." Despite its straightforward pronunciation—"yot"—the spelling is far from intuitive.

  18. yacht, night, light

    yacht, night, light. Yacht came to English from Dutch, and the Dutch pronounce the ch with a rasping sound from the back of the throat, a sound heard in German words like buch ("book") and Scots words like loch ("lake"). Linguists use the term velar fricative to describe this sound, with velar from the Latin word for "curtain ...

  19. YACHT

    YACHT pronunciation. How to say YACHT. Listen to the audio pronunciation in English. Learn more.

  20. How to Pronounce Yacht? (CORRECTLY)

    This video shows you how to pronounce Yacht (yachting, pronunciation guide).Learn to say PROBLEMATIC WORDS better: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dyncGi5eWz...

  21. yacht, n. meanings, etymology and more

    yacht, n. meanings, etymology, pronunciation and more in the Oxford English Dictionary

  22. Yacht

    Here are a few tips that should help you perfect your pronunciation of 'yacht': Sound it Out: Break down the word 'yacht' into its individual sounds "yot". Say these sounds out loud, exaggerating them at first. Practice until you can consistently produce them clearly. Self-Record & Review: Record yourself saying 'yacht' in sentences.

  23. How to pronounce YACHT in English

    How to pronounce YACHT. How to say YACHT. Listen to the audio pronunciation in the Cambridge English Dictionary. Learn more.