"Hilker" is spelled as "ˈhɪlkər" in IPA phonetic transcription. The word has two syllables, with the stress on the first syllable "hɪlk". The "e" at the end is pronounced as a weak "schwa" sound. The letter "h" at the beginning of the word is pronounced as a breathy sound with some friction, similar to the sound in the word "hot." The letter "k" at the end of the word is pronounced by releasing a sharp puff of air from the back of the mouth.