How to Pronounce "bread and water"
expression
ˈbɹɛd/ /ˈænd/, /ənd/ /ˈwɔtɝ
BRED and WAW-ter
bɹˈɛd/ /ˈænd/ /wˈɔːtɐ
bred and WAW-tuh
Definition
A very basic and simple meal, usually just plain bread with water, often used to describe minimal or harsh conditions, especially as a form of punishment in prisons.
IPA Transcription
American English
ˈbɹɛd/ /ˈænd/, /ənd/ /ˈwɔtɝ
British English
bɹˈɛd/ /ˈænd/ /wˈɔːtɐ
Simplified Pronunciation
US
BRED and WAW-ter
UK
bred and WAW-tuh
Listen in Context
The prisoners were given only bread and water for three days.
He survived with just bread and water when lost in the forest.
Children cannot grow healthy on bread and water alone.
Don’t expect to be treated well in jail—you’ll probably get bread and water if you misbehave.