A guide to saying it correctly
How to Pronounce Mole
Pronounced 'MOH-lay,' this rich, complex sauce from Mexico is a culinary delight, not a furry creature.
mole
MOH-lay
/ˈmoʊ.leɪ/ · MOH · lay
Native US English · Kokoro neural TTS · 0:01
It's also a topic of discussion among food enthusiasts exploring authentic international cuisine.
Where the word comes from
The word 'mole' comes from the Nahuatl word 'mōlli,' meaning 'sauce.' It was adopted into Spanish and then English to describe this traditional Mexican dish.
Common ways people get it wrong
- MOHL This pronunciation sounds like the word for a small growth on the skin. Remember the second syllable, 'lay,' is distinct.
- MOW-lay The first syllable rhymes with 'soul' or 'bowl,' not 'cow.' Focus on the 'OH' sound.
Frequently asked
How do you pronounce mole sauce?
The most common pronunciation in English is 'MOH-lay.' It has two distinct syllables, with the stress on the first.
Is mole pronounced like the skin thing?
No, the food dish 'mole' is pronounced 'MOH-lay.' The word for a skin growth is pronounced 'MOHL.'
What's the difference between mole and mol?
The food dish 'mole' is pronounced 'MOH-lay.' The word 'mol' is a unit of measurement in chemistry, pronounced 'MOHL.'
