hippopotamus

Syllables:
hip·po·po·ta·mus
5 syllables
hippopotamus in syllables

About "hippopotamus"

Syllables
5
Letters
12
Language
EN

How to Split "hippopotamus" into Syllables

The word hippopotamus is divided into 5 syllables: hip·po·po·ta·mus. Understanding this syllable division is essential for correct pronunciation and spelling.

📝 Syllable Breakdown

  • hip — 1st syllable
  • po — 2nd syllable
  • po — 3rd syllable
  • ta — 4th syllable
  • mus — 5th syllable

🔊 Pronunciation Guide

The phonetic transcription of hippopotamus:

  • IPA: /ˌhɪp.əˈpɒt.ə.məs/

Listen to Pronunciation

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📖 Definitions

  1. hippopotamus (plural hippopotami or hippopotamuses or hippopotamus)
  2. A semi-aquatic, herbivorous, African hoofed mammal of the family Hippopotamidae.

📚 Word Origin & History

From Latin and New Latin hippopotamus, from Ancient Greek ἱπποπόταμος (hippopótamos), from ἵππος (híppos, “horse”) (English hippo-) + ποταμός (potamós, “river”). Displaced nicker, from Old English nicor. From Ancient Greek ἱπποπόταμος (hippopótamos), from ἵππος (híppos, “horse”) + ποταμός (potamós, “river”).

✓ Why Learn Syllable Division?

Understanding how to break down hippopotamus 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 hippopotamus:

hip, hippo, hippie, hipbath, hipbone, hipness, hipping, hipster.

Frequently Asked Questions About "hippopotamus"

How many syllables does "hippopotamus" have?

hippopotamus has 5 syllables: hip·po·po·ta·mus. The word is divided into 5 distinct sound units that make up the complete pronunciation.

Where is the stress in "hippopotamus"?

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

How do you pronounce "hippopotamus"?

hippopotamus is pronounced as /ˌhɪp.əˈpɒt.ə.məs/ (IPA notation). The syllables are divided as: hip·po·po·ta·mus.

Is "hippopotamus" easy to spell?

Breaking hippopotamus into syllables helps with spelling: hip·po·po·ta·mus. By pronouncing each syllable separately, you can identify the letters more easily and avoid common spelling mistakes.

Why learn to divide "hippopotamus" 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.