How to Pronounce "runt of the litter"
expression
RUNT-uhv-thuh-LIT-er
RUNT-uv-thuh-LIT-uh
Definition
The runt of the litter is the smallest or weakest animal in a group of newborn animals. It can also be used for a person who is seen as the weakest or least likely to succeed compared to others in a group.
IPA Transcription
American English
ˈɹʌnt/ /ˈəv/ /ˈðə/, /ðə/, /ði/ /ˈɫɪtɝ
British English
ɹˈʌnt/ /ˈɒv/ /ðə, ði/ /lˈɪtɐ
Simplified Pronunciation
US
RUNT-uhv-thuh-LIT-er
UK
RUNT-uv-thuh-LIT-uh
Listen in Context
The runt of the litter is always smaller than the others.
We adopted the runt of the litter from the animal shelter.
The runt of the litter often needs extra care.
Growing up, my sister was the runt of the litter, but now she's the tallest.