A guide to saying it correctly
How to Pronounce Córdoba
How to pronounce Córdoba, the Spanish city and a common surname. Focus on the 'th' sound.
córdoba
KOR-thuh-buh
/ˈkɔrðəbə/ · kor · thuh · buh
Native US English · Kokoro neural TTS · 0:01
It's also a common Spanish surname, so you might hear it in introductions or when referring to people.
Where the word comes from
The name Córdoba likely derives from Phoenician, possibly meaning 'distant fortress' or 'good port'. It was a major city in Roman and Moorish Spain.
Common ways people get it wrong
- KOR-doh-buh Many English speakers substitute a 'd' for the Spanish 'd' sound, which is softer, like the 'th' in 'this'.
- kor-BAH This misplaces the stress, which falls on the first syllable in Spanish and English usage.
Frequently asked
Is Córdoba in Spain or Argentina?
There are famous cities named Córdoba in both Spain and Argentina. The pronunciation is the same for both.
How do you say the 'd' in Córdoba?
The Spanish 'd' sound is softer than the English 'd'. It's similar to the 'th' sound in the word 'this'.
Is Córdoba a common last name?
Yes, Córdoba is a relatively common Spanish surname. You might hear it in various contexts, from everyday introductions to formal settings.
