About "obelisk"
Syllables
3
Letters
7
Language
EN
How to Split "obelisk" into Syllables
The word obelisk is divided into 3 syllables: o·be·lisk. Understanding this syllable division is essential for correct pronunciation and spelling.
📝 Syllable Breakdown
- o — 1st syllable
- be — 2nd syllable
- lisk — 3rd syllable
🔊 Pronunciation Guide
The phonetic transcription of obelisk:
- IPA: /ˈɒbəlɪsk/
Listen to Pronunciation
Note: Audio requires JavaScript enabled
📖 Definitions
- A dagger symbol (†), which is used in printed matter as a reference mark to refer the reader to a footnote, marginal note, etc.; beside a person's name to indicate that the person is deceased; or beside a date to indicate that it is a person's death date.
- Regarding sense 2, obelus was used in Middle English, but thereafter was displaced by obelisk until the 19th century when both words began to be used with equal regularity.
📚 Word Origin & History
From Middle French obelisque, from Latin obeliscus (“obelisk”), from Ancient Greek ὀβελίσκος (obelískos), diminutive of ὀβελός (obelós, “needle”). Compare obelus. Borrowed from French obélisque.
✓ Why Learn Syllable Division?
Understanding how to break down obelisk 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 obelisk with related words to understand syllable patterns:
| Word | Syllables | Division |
|---|---|---|
| obelisk | 3 | o·be·lisk |
| oblique | 3 | o-bli-que |
| obloquy | 3 | o-blo-quy |
| oblige | 3 | o-bli-ge |
🔗 Related Words
Explore syllable divisions of words related to obelisk:
obey, obese, Oberon, Oberlin, obesity, obedient, obeisant, obedience.