The word definition is divided into 4 syllables: de·fi·ni·tion. Understanding this syllable division is essential for correct pronunciation and spelling.
The phonetic transcription of definition:
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From Middle English diffinicioun, from Middle French definition, from Latin dēfīnītiō, from dēfīniō. Equivalent to define + -ition. Ultimately from Latin dēfīnītiō.
Understanding how to break down definition into syllables helps with:
Compare definition with related words to understand syllable patterns:
| Word | Syllables | Division |
|---|---|---|
| definition | 4 | de·fi·ni·tion |
| defamation | 4 | de-fa-ma-tion |
| divination | 4 | di-vi-na-tion |
| Diophantine | 4 | dio-phan-ti-ne |
Explore syllable divisions of words related to definition:
definition has 4 syllables: de·fi·ni·tion. The word is divided into 4 distinct sound units that make up the complete pronunciation.
The stress is on the first syllable: de. This means you emphasize the "de" part when pronouncing definition.
definition is pronounced as /ˌdɛf.ɪˈnɪʃ.ən/ (IPA notation). The syllables are divided as: de·fi·ni·tion.
Breaking definition into syllables helps with spelling: de·fi·ni·tion. By pronouncing each syllable separately, you can identify the letters more easily and avoid common spelling mistakes.
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.