elder

How to Split "elder" into Syllables

The word elder is divided into 2 syllables: eld·er. Understanding this syllable division is essential for correct pronunciation and spelling.

📝 Syllable Breakdown

• eld — 1st syllable
• er — 2nd syllable

🔊 Pronunciation Guide

The phonetic transcription of elder:

• IPA: /ˈeldə/

📖 Definitions

1. comparative degree of old: older, greater than another in age or seniority.
2. The normal comparative of old is older. The form elder is usually used in reference to the more senior of two individuals, (except in fixed expressions such as elder statesman). Elder is generally limited to attributive position (my elder brother) and does not occur in predicative position (My brother is older/*elder). This also implies that elder cannot be followed by than.

📚 Word Origin & History

From Middle English eldre, from Old English eldra, yldra, ieldra, from Proto-Germanic *alþizô. The vowel change from a to e triggered by the following i is called umlaut or I-mutation. From Middle English eldre, eller, ellern, from Old English ellærn, from Proto-Germanic *elernaz, *eldernaz (compare Low German Elhorn, Elloorn). Perhaps from Proto-Germanic *aliþro (“udder”), from *alaną (“to nourish”). Cognate with dialectal Dutch elder (“udder”). From Old Norse eldr, from Proto-...

✓ Why Learn Syllable Division?

Understanding how to break down elder 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

🔗 Related Words

Explore syllable divisions of words related to elder:

Eldon, eldest, elderly, Eldorado, elderberry, elderflower.