How to Pronounce "imbecile"

word

/ˈɪmbəsaɪɫ/

IM-buh-syl

/ɪmbˈɛsaɪl/

im-BE-syl

Definition

An imbecile is a very insulting word for someone who acts in a very stupid or foolish way; it's used to strongly criticize someone's intelligence or decisions.

IPA Transcription

American English

/ˈɪmbəsaɪɫ/

British English

/ɪmbˈɛsaɪl/

Simplified Pronunciation

IM-buh-syl

im-BE-syl

Listen in Context

Don't be such an imbecile.

He looked like an imbecile when he forgot his own name.

Calling your boss an imbecile will get you in trouble.

I can't believe you did that. What an imbecile!