linger

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/

📖 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
lamasery	4	la-ma-se-ry
linker	2	link-er
lancer	2	lanc-er
longhair	1	longhair

🔗 Related Words

Explore syllable divisions of words related to linger:

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