How to Pronounce "plaintive"
word
ˈpɫeɪnɪv/, /ˈpɫeɪntɪv
PLAYN-tiv
plˈeɪntɪv
PLAYN-tiv
Definition
Sounding sad, mournful, or expressing sorrow. Commonly used to describe a voice, cry, or music that seems full of sadness.
IPA Transcription
American English
ˈpɫeɪnɪv/, /ˈpɫeɪntɪv
British English
plˈeɪntɪv
Simplified Pronunciation
US
PLAYN-tiv
UK
PLAYN-tiv
Listen in Context
The bird sang a plaintive song in the morning.
She heard a plaintive cry coming from the alley.
The violin played a plaintive melody.
He gave a plaintive sigh as he looked out the window.