Many English learners struggle with the /θ/ sound in words like “think” and “bath.” These voiceless th words often cause pronunciation problems and can make communication unclear.

Here you will learn how to master these sounds and expand your vocabulary with confidence.

This blog will teach you what voiceless th-words are, why they matter for clear speech, and give you practical examples to practice with.

Did you know that mispronouncing just one th sound can change the entire meaning of a sentence? Let’s fix that today.

Why Do Voiceless TH Words Matter?

Voiceless “th” words use the /θ/ sound, made by placing your tongue between your teeth and blowing air out softly, like in “think” or “math.”

This sound is important because it changes word meanings: “think” vs. “sink” or “math” vs. “mat.” Many learners, especially ESL students, find it tricky since their native languages might not have this sound, leading to confusion and misunderstandings.

Mastering voiceless “th” words helps with reading, spelling, and clearer pronunciation. It boosts confidence and makes your English sound more natural and understandable.

Since many everyday English words use this sound, learning it well is key to better communication and language skills.

List of Voiceless Th Words

Here is a comprehensive list of voiceless “th” (/θ/) words, organized by their position in the word: initial, middle, and final.

Use this resource to practice pronunciation, spelling, and recognition of the voiceless “th” sound in English. This list is perfect for students, teachers, and language learners at any level.

Initial Th Words

These words all begin with the “th” sound, making them ideal for pronunciation drills, spelling practice, and early phonics lessons.

Middle Th Words

Each word contains the “th” sound in the middle, making this list useful for practicing pronunciation, spelling, and phonics skills.

Ideal for students and language learners aiming to master the medial “th” sound in English.

Final Th Words

Each word ends with the “th” sound, making this list perfect for practicing pronunciation, spelling, and phonics. Use these words to help learners identify and master the final “th” sound in English.

Teaching and Learning Resources

The right tools make learning voiceless th-words much easier. Here’s what works best for different learning styles.

Best Online Pronunciation Tools

1. Forvo: Real native speakers pronounce thousands of words. Search for any voiceless th word and hear it spoken correctly multiple times.
2. YouGlish: Shows YouTube videos of people using “th words” in real conversations. You see the mouth movements and hear natural pronunciation.
3. IPA Charts: Interactive phonetic alphabet charts help you understand exactly how to make the /θ/ sound. Many include audio examples.
4. Cambridge Dictionary Online: Click the speaker icon next to any word for clear pronunciation. Shows both British and American versions.

Top Apps for Practice

For ESL Learners:

• Sounds Pronunciation App
• ELSA Speak
• Speechling

For Phonics Beginners:

• Phonics Hero
• Reading Eggs
• Starfall

Final Thoughts

Mastering voiceless th words takes time, but the results are worth it. Clear pronunciation of /θ/ sounds helps you communicate better and builds confidence in your English skills.

Start with just five minutes of daily practice using the tools and activities we covered. Focus on one technique at a time, whether it’s tongue twisters or minimal pairs.

What’s your biggest challenge with th sounds? Do you have a favorite practice trick that works for you?

Share your experiences in the comments below. Your tips might help other learners on their pronunciation path, too.