linger

Syllables:
ling·er
2 syllables
linger in syllables

About "linger"

Syllables
2
Letters
6
Language
EN

How to Split "linger" into Syllables

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

📝 Syllable Breakdown

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

🔊 Pronunciation Guide

The phonetic transcription of linger:

  • IPA: /ˈlɪŋɡɚ/

Listen to Pronunciation

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📖 Definitions

  1. linger (third-person singular simple present lingers, present participle lingering, simple past and past participle lingered)
  2. linger m (plural lingers, feminine lingère)

📚 Word Origin & History

From Middle English lengeren, frequentative of lengen (“to stay, dwell, tarry”), from Old English lenġan (“to lengthen, delay, extend”), from Proto-West Germanic *langijan, from Proto-Germanic *langijaną (compare West Frisian lingje (“to linger”), Dutch lengen, German längen, Icelandic lengja (“to lengthen”)), related to the root of English long. Equivalent to linge or long +‎ -er (frequentative verb suffix). From linge +‎ -ier (with elision of -i- after palatal).

✓ Why Learn Syllable Division?

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

Word Syllables Division
linger 2 ling·er
languor 2 la-nguor
linker 2 link-er
longer 2 long-er
lyncher 2 lynch-er

🔗 Related Words

Explore syllable divisions of words related to linger:

Lin, Lina, Lind, line, ling, link, lino, lint.

Frequently Asked Questions About "linger"

How many syllables does "linger" have?

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

Where is the stress in "linger"?

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

How do you pronounce "linger"?

linger is pronounced as /ˈlɪŋɡɚ/ (IPA notation). The syllables are divided as: ling·er.

Is "linger" easy to spell?

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

Why learn to divide "linger" 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.