must

How to Split "must" into Syllables

The word must is divided into 1 syllables: must. Understanding this syllable division is essential for correct pronunciation and spelling.

📝 Syllable Breakdown

• must — 1st syllable

🔊 Pronunciation Guide

The phonetic transcription of must:

• IPA: /məst/

📖 Definitions

1. must (third-person singular simple present must, no present participle, simple past must, no past participle) (modal auxiliary, defective)
2. To do as a requirement; indicates that the sentence subject is required as an imperative or directive to execute the sentence predicate, with failure to do so resulting in a failure or negative consequence.

📚 Word Origin & History

From Middle English moste ("must", literally, "had to", the past tense of Middle English moten (“to have to”)), from Old English mōste (“had to”), 1st & 3rd person singular past tense of mōtan (“to be allowed, be able to, have the opportunity to, be compelled to, must, may”), from Proto-Germanic *mōtaną. Cognate with Dutch moest (“had to”), German musste (“had to”), Swedish måste (“must, have to, be obliged to”). More at mote. From Middle English must, from Old Engli...

✓ Why Learn Syllable Division?

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

Word	Syllables	Division
must	1	must
misdo	2	mis-do
megadeath	3	me-ga-death
Maoist	1	maoist
majesty	3	ma-jes-ty

🔗 Related Words

Explore syllable divisions of words related to must:

mus, muse, mush, musk, muss, mushy, music, musky.