circus

How to Split "circus" into Syllables

The word circus is divided into 2 syllables: cir·cus. Understanding this syllable division is essential for correct pronunciation and spelling.

📝 Syllable Breakdown

• cir — 1st syllable
• cus — 2nd syllable

🔊 Pronunciation Guide

The phonetic transcription of circus:

• IPA: /ˈsɜːkəs/

📖 Definitions

1. circus (plural circuses or (rare) circusses or (rare) circi)
2. A traveling company of performers that may include acrobats, clowns, trained animals, and other novelty acts, that gives shows usually in a circular tent. [from late 18th c.]

📚 Word Origin & History

From Middle English circus, circo, from Latin circus (“ring, circle”), from Ancient Greek κρίκος (kríkos), κίρκος (kírkos, “ring”), from Proto-Indo-European *(s)ker- (“to bend, turn”). Doublet of cirque. Cognate with Old English hring (whence English ring) and Old English hringsetl (“circus”, literally “ring-seat”). Borrowed from Latin circus. Likely borrowed from Ancient Greek κρίκος (kríkos), κίρκος (kírkos, “ring”), from Proto-Indo-European...

✓ Why Learn Syllable Division?

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

Word	Syllables	Division
circus	2	cir·cus
carcass	2	car-cass
chorus	2	cho-rus
crag	1	crag
crosswise	2	crosswi-se

🔗 Related Words

Explore syllable divisions of words related to circus:

cir, circa, Circe, cirri, circle, cirque, cirrus, circlet.