knife

Syllables:
kni·fe
2 syllables
knife in syllables

About "knife"

Syllables
2
Letters
5
Language
EN

How to Split "knife" into Syllables

The word knife is divided into 2 syllables: kni·fe. Understanding this syllable division is essential for correct pronunciation and spelling.

📝 Syllable Breakdown

  • kni — 1st syllable
  • fe — 2nd syllable

🔊 Pronunciation Guide

The phonetic transcription of knife:

  • IPA: /naɪf/

Listen to Pronunciation

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📖 Definitions

  1. A utensil or a tool designed for cutting, consisting of a flat piece of hard material, usually steel or other metal (the blade), usually sharpened on one edge, attached to a handle. The blade may be pointed for piercing.
  2. A weapon designed with the aforementioned specifications intended for slashing or stabbing but too short to be called a sword; a dagger.

📚 Word Origin & History

From Middle English knyf, knif, from late Old English cnīf, from Old Norse knífr, from Proto-Germanic *knībaz, from *knīpaną (“to pinch”), Proto-Indo-European *gneybʰ- (compare Lithuanian gnýbti, žnýbti (“to pinch”), gnaibis (“pinching”)). Displaced native Middle English sax (“knife”) from Old English seax; and Middle English coutel, qwetyll (“knife”) from Old French coutel. The verb knife is attested since the 1860s; the variant knive is attested since 1733.

✓ Why Learn Syllable Division?

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

Word Syllables Division
knife 2 kni·fe
Kishinev 3 ki-shi-nev
Kemp 1 kemp
knobby 2 knob-by
Knopf 1 knopf

🔗 Related Words

Explore syllable divisions of words related to knife:

knit, knish, knight, knives, knicker, Knievel, knitter, knightly.

Frequently Asked Questions About "knife"

How many syllables does "knife" have?

knife has 2 syllables: kni·fe. The word is divided into 2 distinct sound units that make up the complete pronunciation.

Where is the stress in "knife"?

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

How do you pronounce "knife"?

knife is pronounced as /naɪf/ (IPA notation). The syllables are divided as: kni·fe.

Is "knife" easy to spell?

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

Why learn to divide "knife" 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.