About "forbear"
How to Split "forbear" into Syllables
The word forbear is divided into 2 syllables: for·bear. Understanding this syllable division is essential for correct pronunciation and spelling.
📝 Syllable Breakdown
- for — 1st syllable
- bear — 2nd syllable
🔊 Pronunciation Guide
The phonetic transcription of forbear:
- IPA: /fɔːˈbɛə/
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📖 Definitions
- forbear (third-person singular simple present forbears, present participle forbearing, simple past forbore, past participle forborne or (archaic) forborn)
- Alternative spelling of forebear.
- 2004, Memoirs of the Lord of Joinville, Ethel Wedgwood tr.
📚 Word Origin & History
From Middle English forberen, from Old English forberan (“to forbear, abstain from, refrain; suffer, endure, tolerate, humor; restrain; do without”), from Proto-Germanic *fraberaną (“to hold back, endure”); equivalent to for- + bear. Cognate with Old Frisian forbera (“to forfeit”), Middle High German verbërn (“to have not; abstain; refrain from; avoid”) (Cimbrian forbèeran), Gothic 𐍆𐍂𐌰𐌱𐌰𐌹𐍂𐌰𐌽 (frabairan, “to endure”).
✓ Why Learn Syllable Division?
Understanding how to break down forbear 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 forbear with related words to understand syllable patterns:
| Word | Syllables | Division |
|---|---|---|
| forbear | 2 | for·bear |
| forebear | 3 | fo-re-bear |
| frippery | 3 | frip-pe-ry |
| Ferber | 2 | ferb-er |
| forbore | 3 | for-bo-re |
🔗 Related Words
Explore syllable divisions of words related to forbear: