How to Pronounce "summa"
word
ˈsumə
SOO-muh
ˈsʌmə
SUM-uh
Definition
An old Latin word meaning a comprehensive written work, usually summarizing a field of knowledge (like philosophy or theology), or a title given to top academic honors (as in 'summa cum laude'). Sometimes refers to a summary or the total sum.
IPA Transcription
American English
ˈsumə
British English
ˈsʌmə
Simplified Pronunciation
US
SOO-muh
UK
SUM-uh
Listen in Context
She graduated summa cum laude from university.
The philosopher wrote a summa about ethics.
Thomas Aquinas is famous for his Summa Theologica.
Getting summa cum laude is incredibly rare—only the very top students achieve it.