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
US
IM-buh-syl
UK
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!