The English language is full of interesting spelling patterns, and one of them is words that end with “rr.” While double letters can be tricky, they make words unique and fun to learn. In this guide, we’ll explore words that end with “rr,” understand why the double “r” is important, and practice using these words in sentences. Let’s dive in!
Why Do Words End With “RR”?
Double letters like “rr” often appear in English to:
- Keep the Vowel Short: The double “r” ensures the vowel before it stays short. For example, in “star,” the “a” is short, but in “starr,” the double “r” keeps it short.
- Show Stress: Double letters can indicate which syllable is stressed in a word.
- Follow Spelling Rules: Many words with “rr” come from other languages, like Spanish or Latin, where double letters are common.
Common Words That End With “RR”
Here’s a list of words that end with “rr.” Practice saying them aloud to get comfortable with the double “r” sound.
1. Everyday Words
- burr: A rough edge or a prickly seed case.
- Example: The hiker got a burr stuck to his sock.
- purr: The soft sound a cat makes.
- Example: The kitten began to purr when I petted it.
- whirr: A low, continuous sound like a machine.
- Example: The fan made a soft whirr as it spun.
2. Names and Places
- Starr: A common last name.
- Example: Mr. Starr is our new neighbor.
- Barr: A surname or a place name.
- Example: The Barr family is hosting a party.
3. Less Common Words
- chirr: A trilling sound, like a bird or insect.
- Example: The crickets chirr in the grass at night.
- shirr: To gather fabric with parallel threads.
- Example: She learned to shirr the dress for a better fit.
Why Learn Words That End With “RR”?
Learning these words helps you:
Fun Activities to Practice “RR” Words
Make learning fun with these activities:
1. “RR” Word Hunt
- Look for “rr” words in books, magazines, or signs.
- Write them down and create your own list.
2. Rhyme Time
- Find rhyming words with “rr” at the end:
- purr → blur, stir
- burr → fur, sir
3. Sentence Building
- Create sentences using “rr” words:
- “The cat began to purr when I stroked its fur.”
- “I heard the whirr of the blender in the kitchen.”
4. Flashcards
- Write “rr” words on flashcards and practice reading them daily.

Tips for Teachers and Parents
Help kids master “rr” words with these ideas:
- Read Aloud: Choose books with “rr” words and read them together.
- Use Visuals: Show pictures of objects like a cat (purr) or a fan (whirr) to connect the word to its meaning.
- Play Games: Use board games or apps that focus on spelling and phonics.
FAQs About Words Ending With “RR”
1. What are some examples of words ending with “rr”?
Examples include burr, purr, whirr, and chirr.
2. Why do some words have double “r”?
Double “r” keeps the vowel before it short and follows spelling rules from other languages.
3. Are “rr” words common in English?
They are less common but important for spelling and pronunciation.
4. Can “rr” appear in the middle of words?
Yes! For example, “arrow” and “sorry” have “rr” in the middle.
5. How can I help my child practice “rr” words?
Use fun activities like word hunts, flashcards, and rhyming games.
Conclusion
Words that end with “rr” might be rare, but they’re fascinating to learn! Whether it’s the soft purr of a cat or the buzzing whirr of a machine, these words add richness to the English language. Keep practicing with the activities and tips above, and soon you’ll be a pro at spotting and using “rr” words. Happy learning!