About "guru"
How to Split "guru" into Syllables
The word guru is divided into 2 syllables: gu·ru. Understanding this syllable division is essential for correct pronunciation and spelling.
📝 Syllable Breakdown
- gu — 1st syllable
- ru — 2nd syllable
🔊 Pronunciation Guide
The phonetic transcription of guru:
- IPA: /ˈɡʊɹuː/
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📖 Definitions
- In Indian traditions: a spiritual teacher who transmits knowledge to a shishya. [from 17th c.]
- guru (third-person singular simple present gurus, present participle guruing, simple past and past participle gurued)
📚 Word Origin & History
Borrowed from Hindi गुरु (guru) / Punjabi ਗੁਰੂ (gurū), from Sanskrit गुरु (guru, “venerable, respectable”), originally "heavy" and in this sense cognate to English grieve and, more distantly, brute. Doublet of grave. A traditional, though flawed etymology based on the Advayataraka Upanishad (line 16) describes the syllables gu as “darkness” and ru as “destroyer”, thus ascribing the meaning of “one who destroys/dispels darkness” to the word. From Hindi ग...
✓ Why Learn Syllable Division?
Understanding how to break down guru 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 guru with related words to understand syllable patterns:
| Word | Syllables | Division |
|---|---|---|
| guru | 2 | gu·ru |
| Geiger | 2 | geig-er |
| gaucherie | 3 | gau-che-rie |
| grew | 1 | grew |
| Guerrero | 3 | guer-re-ro |
🔗 Related Words
Explore syllable divisions of words related to guru: