About "despair"
How to Split "despair" into Syllables
The word despair is divided into 2 syllables: de·spair. Understanding this syllable division is essential for correct pronunciation and spelling.
📝 Syllable Breakdown
- de — 1st syllable
- spair — 2nd syllable
🔊 Pronunciation Guide
The phonetic transcription of despair:
- IPA: /dɪˈspɛə(ɹ)/
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📖 Definitions
- Loss of hope; utter hopelessness; complete despondency.
- That which is despaired of. (Can we add an example for this sense? )
📚 Word Origin & History
From Middle English dispeir, from Anglo-Norman despeir and Old French desperer (from Latin dēspērō, dēspērāre), or desesperer, from des- (“dis-”) + esperer (“hope”). See also desperate. Displaced native Old English ormōdnes (“despair”) and Old English ortrīewan (“to despair”).
✓ Why Learn Syllable Division?
Understanding how to break down despair 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 despair with related words to understand syllable patterns:
| Word | Syllables | Division |
|---|---|---|
| despair | 2 | de·spair |
| discover | 3 | di-scov-er |
| deceiver | 3 | de-ceiv-er |
| dissever | 3 | dis-sev-er |
| Diaspora | 3 | dia-spo-ra |
🔗 Related Words
Explore syllable divisions of words related to despair:
desk, desalt, descry, desert, design, desire, desist, despot.