The word number is divided into 2 syllables: numb·er. Understanding this syllable division is essential for correct pronunciation and spelling.
The phonetic transcription of number:
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From Middle English number, nombre, numbre, noumbre, from Anglo-Norman noumbre, Old French nombre, from Latin numerus (“number”), ultimately from Proto-Indo-European *nem- (“to divide”). Compare Saterland Frisian Nummer, Nuumer, West Frisian nûmer, Dutch nummer (“number”), German Nummer (“number”), Danish nummer (“number”), Swedish nummer (“number”), Icelandic númer (“number”). Replaced Middle English ȝetæl and rime, more at tell, tale and rhyme. From numb + -er. ...
Understanding how to break down number into syllables helps with:
Compare number with related words to understand syllable patterns:
| Word | Syllables | Division |
|---|---|---|
| number | 2 | numb·er |
| NPR | 1 | npr |
| Niebuhr | 2 | nie-buhr |
| Napier | 3 | na-pi-er |
| never | 2 | nev-er |
Explore syllable divisions of words related to number:
numb, Numbers, numbing, numeral, numeric, numeracy, numerate, numerous.
number has 2 syllables: numb·er. The word is divided into 2 distinct sound units that make up the complete pronunciation.
The stress is on the first syllable: numb. This means you emphasize the "numb" part when pronouncing number.
number is pronounced as /ˈnʌmbər/ (IPA notation). The syllables are divided as: numb·er.
Breaking number into syllables helps with spelling: numb·er. By pronouncing each syllable separately, you can identify the letters more easily and avoid common spelling mistakes.
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.