alabaster

Syllables:
a·la·bast·er
4 syllables
alabaster in syllables

About "alabaster"

Syllables
4
Letters
9
Language
EN

How to Split "alabaster" into Syllables

The word alabaster is divided into 4 syllables: a·la·bast·er. Understanding this syllable division is essential for correct pronunciation and spelling.

📝 Syllable Breakdown

  • a — 1st syllable
  • la — 2nd syllable
  • bast — 3rd syllable
  • er — 4th syllable

🔊 Pronunciation Guide

The phonetic transcription of alabaster:

  • IPA: /ˈæl.əˌbɑːs.tə/

Listen to Pronunciation

Note: Audio requires JavaScript enabled

📖 Definitions

  1. alabaster (usually uncountable, plural alabasters)
  2. A fine-grained white or lightly-tinted variety of gypsum, used ornamentally.

📚 Word Origin & History

From Middle English alabastre, from Old French alabastre, from Latin alabaster (“box for perfumes or unguents”), from Ancient Greek ἀλάβαστρος (alábastros), from earlier ἀλάβαστος (alábastos, “vase without handles for storing perfumes”). This may further derive from Egyptian ꜥj-r-bꜣstjt (“vessel of the Egyptian goddess Bast”). The Latin suffix -aster is unrelated, but may have influenced the spelling of the borrowing from Ancient Greek (whence a direct loan...

✓ Why Learn Syllable Division?

Understanding how to break down alabaster 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

🔗 Related Words

Explore syllable divisions of words related to alabaster:

Ala, Alan, Alar, Alas, alack, Alamo, Alana, alarm.

Frequently Asked Questions About "alabaster"

How many syllables does "alabaster" have?

alabaster has 4 syllables: a·la·bast·er. The word is divided into 4 distinct sound units that make up the complete pronunciation.

Where is the stress in "alabaster"?

The stress is on the first syllable: a. This means you emphasize the "a" part when pronouncing alabaster.

How do you pronounce "alabaster"?

alabaster is pronounced as /ˈæl.əˌbɑːs.tə/ (IPA notation). The syllables are divided as: a·la·bast·er.

Is "alabaster" easy to spell?

Breaking alabaster into syllables helps with spelling: a·la·bast·er. By pronouncing each syllable separately, you can identify the letters more easily and avoid common spelling mistakes.

Why learn to divide "alabaster" into syllables?

Learning syllable division helps with correct pronunciation, improved spelling, better reading fluency, and is useful for poetry and lyric writing where syllable counting matters. It's especially helpful for language learners.