How to Pronounce Betelgeuse: A Simple Guide

If you’ve ever gazed up at the night sky and marveled at the constellation Orion, you’ve likely noticed the bright, reddish star nestled in its shoulder. That star is Betelgeuse, one of the most fascinating and enigmatic objects in our galaxy. But before you can impress your friends with fun facts about this supergiant star, there’s one hurdle to overcome: how do you actually pronounce its name?

Betelgeuse (often spelled "Betelgeuse" but sometimes seen as "Betelgeux" or "Betelgeuze") has a name that can trip up even the most seasoned stargazers. Is it “Beetle-juice”? “Bet-el-gaze”? “Bay-tell-goose”? Let’s clear up the confusion once and for all.

The Correct Pronunciation of Betelgeuse

The most widely accepted pronunciation of Betelgeuse is:

“BEET-el-juice”
(/ˈbiːtəldʒuːz/ or /ˈbɛtəldʒuːz/)

Yes, it sounds exactly like the title of the 1988 Tim Burton movie Beetlejuice. While the movie has undoubtedly popularized this pronunciation, it’s not just a Hollywood invention—it’s actually how astronomers and linguists agree the name should be said.

Where Does the Name Betelgeuse Come From?

To understand the pronunciation, it helps to know the origin of the name. Betelgeuse comes from the Arabic phrase “yad al-jawzā” (يد الجوزاء), which means “the hand of the central one” or “the hand of Orion.” Over time, the name was mistranslated and corrupted into “Betelgeuse” in medieval Latin texts. The Arabic roots of the name explain why the pronunciation might feel unfamiliar to English speakers.

Common Mispronunciations to Avoid

Given its unusual spelling and origin, Betelgeuse is often mispronounced. Here are a few common mistakes and why they’re not quite right:

• “Bet-el-gaze” – This version might seem logical based on the spelling, but it doesn’t align with the name’s historical roots or the accepted pronunciation.
• “Bay-tell-goose” – While creative, this pronunciation strays too far from the original Arabic and Latin influences.
• “Beetle-goose” – This one is close but swaps the “juice” for “goose,” which isn’t quite accurate.

Stick with “BEET-el-juice” to stay on the right track.

Why Does Pronunciation Matter?

You might be wondering, “Does it really matter how I say it?” While it’s true that language evolves and regional variations exist, using the correct pronunciation can help you communicate more effectively, especially in scientific or academic settings. Plus, knowing how to say Betelgeuse correctly adds a layer of authenticity to your stargazing stories!

Fun Facts About Betelgeuse

Now that you know how to pronounce it, here are a few fun facts about Betelgeuse to share at your next backyard astronomy session:

• A Supergiant Star: Betelgeuse is a red supergiant, one of the largest and brightest stars visible to the naked eye. If it were placed at the center of our solar system, its surface would extend past the orbit of Jupiter!
• On the Brink of a Supernova: Betelgeuse is nearing the end of its life and is expected to explode as a supernova sometime in the next 100,000 years. When it does, it will be visible even during the day.
• Part of Orion: Betelgeuse marks Orion’s right shoulder (or left, from our perspective) and is part of one of the most recognizable constellations in the night sky.

Final Thoughts

Pronouncing Betelgeuse correctly is a small but meaningful way to connect with the wonders of the universe. Whether you’re an amateur astronomer, a sci-fi fan, or just someone who loves learning new things, mastering the name of this cosmic giant is a step toward appreciating the beauty and mystery of the stars above.

So the next time you spot that glowing red star in Orion, you can confidently say, “Look, it’s BEET-el-juice!”—and maybe even share a fact or two about this incredible star.

Happy stargazing! 🌌✨