How do you pronounce ketubah and how do you say it correctly?

The ketubah is the Jewish marriage contract signed before the ceremony. It sets out the groom's obligations to the bride and is often read aloud. Because it is a Hebrew word, English speakers vary in how they say it.

The most common pronunciation is kuh-TOO-bah. Start with a soft k sound, like the k in cat. The middle syllable is TOO, with the stress on it. End with bah, like the ba in banana. Some say kuh-TOO-bah, others say kee-TOO-bah. Both are understood.

The best guide is your own community. Ask your rabbi, the person officiating, or guests who are familiar with Jewish weddings. Listen to how they say it and follow their lead. What matters most is saying the word with respect and warmth. If you are unsure during the ceremony, a gentle attempt is always appreciated.

If your ketubah has a specific spelling or family tradition, ask your wedding planner or rabbi for the version used in your ceremony. There is no single rule for English speakers.