locust

How to Split "locust" into Syllables

The word locust is divided into 2 syllables: lo·cust. Understanding this syllable division is essential for correct pronunciation and spelling.

📝 Syllable Breakdown

• lo — 1st syllable
• cust — 2nd syllable

🔊 Pronunciation Guide

The phonetic transcription of locust:

• IPA: /ˈləʊ.kəst/

📖 Definitions

1. Any of the grasshoppers, often polyphenic and usually swarming, in the family Acrididae that are very destructive to crops and other vegetation, especially migratory locusts (Locusta migratoria). [from 14th c.]
2. Any of various often leguminous trees and shrubs, especially of the genera Robinia and Gleditsia; locust tree. [from 17th c.]

📚 Word Origin & History

From Middle English locuste, locust, from Anglo-Norman locuste, Middle French locuste, and their source, Latin locusta (“locust, crustacean, lobster”). Doublet of langouste. The tree sense, originally referring to the carob (compare locust bean), is based on the resemblance of the trees' beanlike seed pods to the insect and is likely a semantic loan from Ancient Greek ἀκρίς (akrís). The sense in "Mainlander" is a semantic loan from Cantonese 蝗蟲 / 蝗虫 (wong4 cung4), also meanin...

✓ Why Learn Syllable Division?

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

Word	Syllables	Division
locust	2	lo·cust
licit	2	li-cit
lactate	3	lac-ta-te
loyalist	2	loya-list
lassitude	4	las-si-tu-de

🔗 Related Words

Explore syllable divisions of words related to locust:

loch, loci, lock, loco, local, Locke, locum, locus.