embarrass

How to Split "embarrass" into Syllables

The word embarrass is divided into 3 syllables: em·bar·rass. Understanding this syllable division is essential for correct pronunciation and spelling.

📝 Syllable Breakdown

• em — 1st syllable
• bar — 2nd syllable
• rass — 3rd syllable

🔊 Pronunciation Guide

The phonetic transcription of embarrass:

• IPA: /ɪmˈbæɹəs/

📖 Definitions

1. embarrass (third-person singular simple present embarrasses, present participle embarrassing, simple past and past participle embarrassed)
2. This will... be the principal part of education; and this alone will effectively dispel that theological philosophy, which, in its decline, is still powerful enough to embarrass the course both of intellectual and social progress.

📚 Word Origin & History

Borrowed from Middle French embarrasser, embarasser (“to embarrass; to block, obstruct”), from Spanish embarazar, from Portuguese embaraçar, from em- (“in”) (from Latin im-) + baraço (“noose, rope”), from Arabic مَرَسَة (marasa, “rope”), ultimately from Akkadian 𒄙 (GUR /⁠markasu⁠/, “rope”).

✓ Why Learn Syllable Division?

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

Word	Syllables	Division
embarrass	3	em·bar·rass
empress	1	empress
embrace	2	embra-ce
embargo	3	em-bar-go
empiric	3	em-pi-ric

🔗 Related Words

Explore syllable divisions of words related to embarrass:

embed, ember, embalm, embank, embark, emblem, embody, emboss.