ladder

Syllables:
ladd·er
2 syllables
ladder in syllables

About "ladder"

Syllables
2
Letters
6
Language
EN

How to Split "ladder" into Syllables

The word ladder is divided into 2 syllables: ladd·er. Understanding this syllable division is essential for correct pronunciation and spelling.

📝 Syllable Breakdown

  • ladd — 1st syllable
  • er — 2nd syllable

🔊 Pronunciation Guide

The phonetic transcription of ladder:

  • IPA: /ˈlad.ə/

Listen to Pronunciation

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📖 Definitions

  1. A frame, usually portable, of wood, metal, or rope, used for ascent and descent, consisting of two side pieces to which are fastened rungs (cross strips or rounds acting as steps).
  2. For stockings touted as resistant to ladders (unraveling), the phrase “ladder resist” is used in the UK. The American equivalent is “run resistant”.

📚 Word Origin & History

Inherited from Middle English ladder, laddre; from Old English hlǣder, from Proto-West Germanic *hlaidriju, from Proto-Germanic *hlaidrijō, from Proto-Indo-European *ḱlóydʰrom, from *ḱley- (“to lean”). Compare Scots ledder, North Frisian ladder, Saterland Frisian Laadere, West Frisian ljedder, Dutch ladder, German Leiter; also Old Irish clithar (“hedge”), and Umbrian 𐌊𐌋𐌄𐌈𐌓𐌀𐌌 (kleθram, “stretcher”). See lean, which is related to lid. Further cognates inc...

✓ Why Learn Syllable Division?

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

Word Syllables Division
ladder 2 ladd·er
loather 2 loath-er
looter 2 loot-er
laudatory 4 lau-da-to-ry
leathery 3 lea-the-ry

🔗 Related Words

Explore syllable divisions of words related to ladder:

lad, lade, lady, laden, ladle, laddie, lading, Ladoga.

Frequently Asked Questions About "ladder"

How many syllables does "ladder" have?

ladder has 2 syllables: ladd·er. The word is divided into 2 distinct sound units that make up the complete pronunciation.

Where is the stress in "ladder"?

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

How do you pronounce "ladder"?

ladder is pronounced as /ˈlad.ə/ (IPA notation). The syllables are divided as: ladd·er.

Is "ladder" easy to spell?

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

Why learn to divide "ladder" 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.