2 syllables: Cy, rus. Stress on Cy.
SEYE-ruhs
/ˈsaɪɹəs/
Cyrus is pronounced SEYE-ruhs (/ˈsaɪɹəs/). It has two syllables (Cy-rus), with the stress on "Cy". Cyrus is a masculine given name of Persian origin, most famously borne by the ancient Achaemenid rulers. In modern usage it typically refers to people named Cyrus, including public figures, and functions as a proper noun. The name carries historical weight and often evokes leadership associations, though usage ranges from formal to casual depending on context.
nounCyrus is a masculine given name of Persian origin, most famously borne by the ancient Achaemenid rulers. In modern usage it typically refers to people named Cyrus, including public figures, and functions as a proper noun. The name carries historical weight and often evokes leadership associations, though usage ranges from formal to casual depending on context.
"The astronomer Cyrus discovered a new comet and published his findings."
"Cyrus voted for the bill, but his stance sparked debate among colleagues."
"In the film, Cyrus plays a pivotal role as a cunning strategist."
Cyrus is pronounced /ˈsaɪrəs/ in US, UK, and AU varieties. The first syllable bears primary stress: 'SY-e- rus' with /aɪ/ as the long eye vowel. The second syllable uses a reduced /rəs/ contour in many accents, where the r is pronounced and the second vowel is a short schwa-like vowel. Think: SAYR-us with a quick, light ending. Audio references: you can compare with pronunciations on Forvo or YouGlish for variations.
Common errors: 1) Misplacing stress on the second syllable (ˈsi-rus). 2) Rendering /aɪ/ as a short /ɪ/ or /eɪ/ in the first syllable (CYrus vs Ci-rus). 3) Dropping the final /s/ or making it a /z/ voice. Correction tips: emphasize the /aɪ/ in the first syllable with a crisp /s/ plus a short, unstressed second syllable; practice with minimal pairs like Cyrus vs Cirrus to feel the difference.
Across accents you’ll hear subtle shifts: US/UK/AU share /ˈsaɪrəs/ core, but rhoticity affects the /r/ coloring (US rhotic, UK non-rhotic typically with a weaker r in coda). Vowel length and quality can shift slightly: US may have a tighter /aɪ/ diphthong; UK may present a slightly more centralized ending vowel; AU often features a more relaxed lip rounding and a near-schwa ending. Listen to native speakers to hear these differences.
Because of the two-syllable structure with a stressed first syllable and a reduced second, plus the /ɪ/ vs /aɪ/ confusion in casual speech. The key challenge is keeping the /aɪ/ diphthong accurate while not blending the /r/ and final /s/ into one syllable. Precise articulation of /saɪ/ and crisp /r/ and /əs/ helps. IPA guidance and listening practice are essential.
Is the first syllable pronounced with the /aɪ/ as in 'sigh' or closer to /aɪə/ in some accents? For most speakers, it's /ˈsaɪrəs/ with a clear /aɪ/ and a rhotic /r/ before the reduced /əs/ in fluent speech. Practicing with a phrase like “Cyrus the Great” will help lock the rhythm and allow you to feel the stress shift clearly.
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The name Cyrus originates from Old Persian Kuruš, later Hellenized as Kyros, which entered Greek as Κύρος (Kúros). It combines elements linked to “sun” and “like,” though the exact semantic composition is debated among linguists. The Hebrew Bible references Cyrus as a liberator figure (Cyrus the Great), which helped cement the name in Western tradition. In Persian, the name has been associated with rulership and authority, and it spread through Hellenistic and Western cultures via royal dynasties and religious texts. In English, Cyrus became established in the late medieval period and rose to prominence in modern times with notable individuals in politics, entertainment, and academia, maintaining both historical gravitas and contemporary familiarity.
💡 Etymology tip: Understanding word origins can help you remember pronunciation patterns and recognize related words in the same language family.
Help others use "Cyrus" correctly by contributing grammar tips, common mistakes, and context guidance.
💡 These words have similar meanings to "Cyrus" and can often be used interchangeably.
🔄 These words have opposite meanings to "Cyrus" and show contrast in usage.
📚 Vocabulary tip: Learning synonyms and antonyms helps you understand nuanced differences in meaning and improves your word choice in speaking and writing.
Words that rhyme with "Cyrus"
-rus sounds
Practice with these rhyming pairs to improve your pronunciation consistency:
🎵 Rhyme tip: Practicing with rhyming words helps you master similar sound patterns and improves your overall pronunciation accuracy.
