# IPA

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/ipa
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. a type of beer

noun · CEFR B2

Stands for India Pale Ale. A popular type of beer that usually has a strong, bitter taste and a fruity smell.

For teachers: Abbreviation for India Pale Ale. A hoppy style of beer within the broader category of pale ale, characterized by high bitterness and floral or citrus aromas.

- He ordered a cold IPA at the bar because he likes bitter beers.
- The local brewery specializes in citrus-forward IPAs, utilizing a variety of hops to achieve a complex flavor profile that appeals to craft beer enthusiasts.

### 2. phonetic symbols

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

Stands for International Phonetic Alphabet. A system of symbols where each sign represents one specific human speech sound.

For teachers: Abbreviation for International Phonetic Alphabet. An alphabetic system of phonetic notation based primarily on the Latin script, designed to represent each distinct sound in human speech.

- The dictionary uses IPA symbols to show you exactly how to pronounce the word.
- Linguistics students must master the IPA to accurately transcribe the subtle phonetic variations found in different regional dialects.

Usage: Usually preceded by 'the' when referring to the system itself.

### 3. the phonetic association

noun · CEFR C2 · Formal · Technical

Stands for International Phonetic Association. The organization that created and maintains the International Phonetic Alphabet.

For teachers: Abbreviation for International Phonetic Association. The academic organization responsible for the standardization of phonetic notation and the study of phonetics.

- The IPA recently updated its chart to include a new symbol for a rare sound.
- The IPA was established in Paris in 1886 to promote the scientific study of phonetics and the various practical applications of that science.

### 4. rubbing alcohol

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

Stands for isopropyl alcohol. A chemical used for cleaning or as a liquid to kill germs.

For teachers: Abbreviation for isopropyl alcohol. A colorless, flammable chemical compound used extensively as a solvent and as a disinfectant in medical and industrial settings.

- Clean the surface with a little IPA before you apply the glue.
- The technician used high-purity IPA to remove the residual thermal paste from the processor before installing the new cooling unit.

## Examples

- The dictionary shows the IPA for every word.
- Language teachers often use the IPA to help students master difficult vowel sounds that do not exist in their native tongue.
- While the Latin alphabet is insufficient for capturing the nuances of regional accents, the IPA provides a rigorous framework for transcribing every phonetic variation found in human speech.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.