syllable
word
Definition
A syllable is a single beat or sound in a word, made up of one or more letters, usually with one vowel sound.
Usage & Nuances
'Syllable' is primarily used in linguistic or educational contexts. It's common to 'count syllables' when teaching pronunciation or poetry. Don't confuse with 'letter' (written character) or 'word' (whole unit of meaning). Key collocations: 'single syllable', 'two-syllable word', 'syllable stress'.
Example Sentences
The word 'cat' has one syllable.
basic
Please clap once for each syllable in your name.
basic
How many syllables are in the word 'banana'?
basic
Poems often use lines with the same number of syllables.
natural
Try breaking the word into syllables to make it easier to pronounce.
natural
She spoke so quickly, I could barely catch a single syllable.
natural