hoodlum

Syllables:
hood·lum
2 syllables
hoodlum in syllables

About "hoodlum"

Syllables
2
Letters
7
Language
EN

How to Split "hoodlum" into Syllables

The word hoodlum is divided into 2 syllables: hood·lum. Understanding this syllable division is essential for correct pronunciation and spelling.

📝 Syllable Breakdown

  • hood — 1st syllable
  • lum — 2nd syllable

🔊 Pronunciation Guide

The phonetic transcription of hoodlum:

  • IPA: /ˈhuːdləm/

Listen to Pronunciation

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📖 Definitions

  1. A short form, "hood," also exists.
  2. A nonstandard, jocular plural hoodla (treating the word like a Latin noun) also exists.

📚 Word Origin & History

First attested in a December 1866 Daily Alta California article, which mentions "the 'Hoodlum Gang' of juvenile thieves". Several possible origins have been proposed. It may derive from a Germanic word like Swabian hudelum (“disorderly”) or Bavarian Haderlump (“ragamuffin”). Herbert Asbury's book The Barbary Coast: An Informal History of the San Francisco Underworld (1933, A. A. Knopf, New York) says the word originated in San Francisco from a particular street gang's call to unemployed ...

✓ Why Learn Syllable Division?

Understanding how to break down hoodlum 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 hoodlum:

Hood, hoof, hook, hoop, hoot, hooch, hooey, hooka.

Frequently Asked Questions About "hoodlum"

How many syllables does "hoodlum" have?

hoodlum has 2 syllables: hood·lum. The word is divided into 2 distinct sound units that make up the complete pronunciation.

Where is the stress in "hoodlum"?

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

How do you pronounce "hoodlum"?

hoodlum is pronounced as /ˈhuːdləm/ (IPA notation). The syllables are divided as: hood·lum.

Is "hoodlum" easy to spell?

Breaking hoodlum into syllables helps with spelling: hood·lum. By pronouncing each syllable separately, you can identify the letters more easily and avoid common spelling mistakes.

Why learn to divide "hoodlum" 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.