detest

Syllables:
det·est
2 syllables
detest in syllables

About "detest"

Syllables
2
Letters
6
Language
EN

How to Split "detest" into Syllables

The word detest is divided into 2 syllables: det·est. Understanding this syllable division is essential for correct pronunciation and spelling.

📝 Syllable Breakdown

  • det — 1st syllable
  • est — 2nd syllable

🔊 Pronunciation Guide

The phonetic transcription of detest:

  • IPA: /dɪˈtɛst/

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📖 Definitions

  1. This is a catenative verb that takes the gerund (-ing). See Appendix:English catenative verbs
  2. “detest”, in Webster’s Revised Unabridged Dictionary, Springfield, Mass.: G. & C. Merriam, 1913, →OCLC.

📚 Word Origin & History

From Middle French detester (French détester), from Latin dētestor (“to imprecate evil while calling the gods to witness", "denounce", "hate intensely”), from dē- + testor (“to testify, bear witness”), from testis (“a witness”); see test, testify. Doublet of detestate.

✓ Why Learn Syllable Division?

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

Word Syllables Division
detest 2 det·est
disassociate 5 di-sas-so-cia-te
deduct 2 de-duct
doughty 2 dough-ty
desist 2 de-sist

🔗 Related Words

Explore syllable divisions of words related to detest:

deter, detox, detach, detail, detain, detect, detour, detente.

Frequently Asked Questions About "detest"

How many syllables does "detest" have?

detest has 2 syllables: det·est. The word is divided into 2 distinct sound units that make up the complete pronunciation.

Where is the stress in "detest"?

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

How do you pronounce "detest"?

detest is pronounced as /dɪˈtɛst/ (IPA notation). The syllables are divided as: det·est.

Is "detest" easy to spell?

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

Why learn to divide "detest" 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.