obsess

Syllables:
ob·sess
2 syllables
obsess in syllables

About "obsess"

Syllables
2
Letters
6
Language
EN

How to Split "obsess" into Syllables

The word obsess is divided into 2 syllables: ob·sess. Understanding this syllable division is essential for correct pronunciation and spelling.

📝 Syllable Breakdown

  • ob — 1st syllable
  • sess — 2nd syllable

🔊 Pronunciation Guide

The phonetic transcription of obsess:

  • IPA: /əbˈsɛs/

Listen to Pronunciation

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📖 Definitions

  1. obsess (third-person singular simple present obsesses, present participle obsessing, simple past and past participle obsessed)
  2. “obsess”, in Webster’s Revised Unabridged Dictionary, Springfield, Mass.: G. & C. Merriam, 1913, →OCLC.

📚 Word Origin & History

From Latin obsessus, perfect passive participle of obsideō (“sit on or in, remain, besiege”), from ob (“before”) + sedeō (“I sit”); see sit, session, etc.; compare assess, possess.

✓ Why Learn Syllable Division?

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

Word Syllables Division
obsess 2 ob·sess
Ophiuchus 3 o-phiu-chus
obis 2 o-bis
obese 3 o-be-se
offish 2 of-fish

🔗 Related Words

Explore syllable divisions of words related to obsess:

obs, obscene, obscure, obsequy, observe, obscurer, observed, observer.

Frequently Asked Questions About "obsess"

How many syllables does "obsess" have?

obsess has 2 syllables: ob·sess. The word is divided into 2 distinct sound units that make up the complete pronunciation.

Where is the stress in "obsess"?

The stress is on the first syllable: ob. This means you emphasize the "ob" part when pronouncing obsess.

How do you pronounce "obsess"?

obsess is pronounced as /əbˈsɛs/ (IPA notation). The syllables are divided as: ob·sess.

Is "obsess" easy to spell?

Breaking obsess into syllables helps with spelling: ob·sess. By pronouncing each syllable separately, you can identify the letters more easily and avoid common spelling mistakes.

Why learn to divide "obsess" into syllables?

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.