Medical Words
MedicalWords

11,000+ medical terms. Free forever.

How to Pronounce Nipple

Definition, meaning, and phonetic spelling

Nipple Pronunciation

NIP-ul

Stressed syllable in ALL CAPS · hyphens separate syllables

Syllable Breakdown

NIP

stress here

ul

2 syllables

What is Nipple?

The raised projection at the center of the breast through which 15-25 lactiferous ducts open to deliver milk during breastfeeding; it is surrounded by the pigmented areola.

Questions About Nipple

How do you pronounce the word 'nipple'?

+
Say it like this: NIP-ul. The first syllable rhymes with 'tip' or 'sip,' and the second syllable sounds like 'ul' (the same sound at the end of words like 'apple' or 'bottle'). Put the stress on the first syllable, so it's NIP-ul, not nip-UL.

What's the most common mispronunciation of 'nipple'?

+
Many people accidentally stress the second syllable and say 'nip-UL' instead of 'NIP-ul.' Remember: the emphasis goes on the first part of the word—NIP-ul—just like you'd say 'RIP-ple' for the word 'ripple.'

How many syllables does 'nipple' have?

+
The word 'nipple' has two syllables: NIP and ul. It breaks down like this: NIP-ul.

What does 'nipple' mean in simple terms?

+
A nipple is the small, raised bump in the center of the breast. In everyday language, people might just call it a 'breast tip' or refer to it when talking about nursing a baby.

Where does the word 'nipple' come from?

+
The exact origin of 'nipple' is uncertain, but it likely comes from an old English word meaning 'a small projection' or 'little nip.' It became the standard medical and everyday term because of its descriptive shape.

Are there any related words that use the same root as 'nipple'?

+
Yes—words like 'nippy' (meaning small or sharp) and 'nip' (to pinch or bite) share similar roots with 'nipple.' They all come from the idea of something small or pointed.

Can you use 'nipple' in a simple sentence?

+
Here's an example: 'The baby's lips touched the nipple during feeding.' This sentence shows how the word is used in everyday medical or parenting conversations.

Is 'nipple' spelled differently in other English-speaking countries?

+
No, 'nipple' is spelled and pronounced the same way in American English, British English, Australian English, and other varieties of English. The pronunciation stays NIP-ul everywhere.