2 syllables: Pad, dle. Stress on Pad.
PAD-uhl
/ˈpædəl/
Paddle is pronounced PAD-uhl (/ˈpædəl/). It has two syllables (Pad-dle), with the stress on "Pad". Paddle (noun) refers to a short, flat-ended implement used for propelling a boat through water or for stirring, mixing, or turning substances. It can also denote a light, flat hand tool used for spanking or a playful cue in games. The term emphasizes the tool’s broad blade and manual action, distinguishing it from oars or paddles with handles.
nounPaddle (noun) refers to a short, flat-ended implement used for propelling a boat through water or for stirring, mixing, or turning substances. It can also denote a light, flat hand tool used for spanking or a playful cue in games. The term emphasizes the tool’s broad blade and manual action, distinguishing it from oars or paddles with handles.
How to Pronounce Paddle
"She chose a wooden paddle to stir the thick soup."
"We rented a kayak and spotted a man trimming the river with his paddle."
"The dog wagged its tail as the child waved a bright paddle during the race."
Paddle is pronounced with two syllables: /ˈpæd.əl/. The first syllable carries the primary stress, with a short “a” as in 'cat' and a schwa in the second syllable. Tip: keep the lips relaxed for the second syllable; do not exaggerate the final 'l' sound. Listen for a quick, light 'd' between the syllables. IPA: US/UK/AU /ˈpæd.əl/.
Common errors include pronouncing it as a single syllable (pad-ull) or delaying the 'd' too long, making it 'pa-dle' with a strong 'l' in the middle. Another pitfall is a lengthened first vowel, sounding like 'paid-dle'. Correction: target a short, crisp /æ/ in the first syllable and a quick, light /d/ before the schwa /əl/. Practice with minimal pairs like pad-dle vs pad + dle to stabilize the split.
In US, UK, and AU accents, the primary stress on the first syllable remains, with /æ/ as the vowel in the first syllable. The ending is a relaxed /əl/ (schwa + l), not a full vowel. Rhoticity differences appear in connected speech; in non-rhotic accents you may hear a subtle vowel in final r-less contexts, but 'paddle' ends with /əl/ consistently. Overall, the pronunciation remains broadly similar across these accents.
The challenge lies in the crisp /d/ consonant joining the syllables and the quick transition to the final /əl/. The first vowel /æ/ is short and lax; many speakers insert a vowel between /d/ and /l/ or blend syllables, which softens the stop. Practice by isolating the syllables: /pæd/ then /əl/, then blend. Focusing on timing and the subtle alveolar stop helps reduce sloppiness.
In careful speech, the two distinct syllables are preserved with primary stress on the first: /ˈpæd.əl/. In rapid or casual speech, the /əl/ can blur to a light schwa-like ending, but the primary stress remains unmistakably on the first syllable.
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Paddle comes from the Old English padun or pad
💡 Etymology tip: Understanding word origins can help you remember pronunciation patterns and recognize related words in the same language family.
Help others use "Paddle" correctly by contributing grammar tips, common mistakes, and context guidance.
💡 These words have similar meanings to "Paddle" and can often be used interchangeably.
🔄 These words have opposite meanings to "Paddle" 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 "Paddle"
-dle 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.
