aggravate

How to Split "aggravate" into Syllables

The word aggravate is divided into 3 syllables: aggra·va·te. Understanding this syllable division is essential for correct pronunciation and spelling.

📝 Syllable Breakdown

• aggra — 1st syllable
• va — 2nd syllable
• te — 3rd syllable

🔊 Pronunciation Guide

The phonetic transcription of aggravate:

• IPA: /ˈæɡ.ɹə.veɪ̯t/

📖 Definitions

1. aggravate (third-person singular simple present aggravates, present participle aggravating, simple past and past participle aggravated)
2. To make (an offence) worse or more severe; to increase in offensiveness or heinousness. [from 16th c.]

📚 Word Origin & History

The adjective is first attested in 1471 in Middle English, the verb in 1530; from Latin aggravātus, perfect passive participle of aggravō (“to add to the weight of, make worse, oppress, annoy”) (see -ate (verb-forming suffix) and -ate (adjective-forming suffix)), from ad- (“to”) + gravō (“to make heavy”), from gravis (“heavy”) + -ō (verb-forming suffix). See grave and compare aggrieve and aggrege. Participial usage of the adjective up until Early Modern English.

✓ Why Learn Syllable Division?

Understanding how to break down aggravate into syllables helps with:

• Correct pronunciation — Knowing syllable structure ensures accurate speech
• Improved spelling — Breaking words into chunks makes them easier to remember and write
• Reading fluency — Recognizing syllable patterns speeds up reading comprehension
• Poetry and lyrics — Syllable counting is essential for meter and rhythm
• Language learning — Non-native speakers benefit from syllable awareness

📊 Similar Words Comparison

Compare aggravate with related words to understand syllable patterns:

Word	Syllables	Division
aggravate	3	aggra·va·te
acerbity	4	a-cer-bi-ty
aggrieved	2	aggriev-ed
acerbate	4	a-cer-ba-te
Ashcroft	1	ashcroft

🔗 Related Words

Explore syllable divisions of words related to aggravate:

Aggie, aggro, aggrieve, aggregate, aggressor, aggrieved, aggrandize, aggression.