baby

Syllables:
ba·by
2 syllables
baby in syllables

About "baby"

Syllables
2
Letters
4
Language
EN

How to Split "baby" into Syllables

The word baby is divided into 2 syllables: ba·by. Understanding this syllable division is essential for correct pronunciation and spelling.

📝 Syllable Breakdown

  • ba — 1st syllable
  • by — 2nd syllable

🔊 Pronunciation Guide

The phonetic transcription of baby:

  • IPA: /ˈbeɪ̯.bi/

Listen to Pronunciation

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📖 Definitions

  1. A very young human, particularly from birth to a couple of years old or until walking is fully mastered.
  2. A very young human, even if not yet born.

📚 Word Origin & History

From Middle English baby, babie (“baby”), a diminutive form of babe (“babe, baby”), equivalent to babe +‎ -y/-ie (“endearing and diminutive suffix”). Perhaps ultimately imitative of baby talk (compare babble). Borrowed from English baby. Borrowed from English baby. From English baby. Borrowed from English baby, from Middle English baby. Unadapted borrowing from English baby. From German Baby, from English baby. See the etymology of the corresponding lemma form. From babe +‎ -y. F...

✓ Why Learn Syllable Division?

Understanding how to break down baby 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 baby with related words to understand syllable patterns:

Word Syllables Division
baby 2 ba·by
behave 3 be-ha-ve
booboo 2 boo-boo
BB 1 bb
boy 1 boy

🔗 Related Words

Explore syllable divisions of words related to baby:

babe, Babar, babel, Babur, babble, baboon, Babbage, Babbitt.

Frequently Asked Questions About "baby"

How many syllables does "baby" have?

baby has 2 syllables: ba·by. The word is divided into 2 distinct sound units that make up the complete pronunciation.

Where is the stress in "baby"?

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

How do you pronounce "baby"?

baby is pronounced as /ˈbeɪ̯.bi/ (IPA notation). The syllables are divided as: ba·by.

Is "baby" easy to spell?

Breaking baby into syllables helps with spelling: ba·by. By pronouncing each syllable separately, you can identify the letters more easily and avoid common spelling mistakes.

Why learn to divide "baby" 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.