relieve

How to Split "relieve" into Syllables

The word relieve is divided into 3 syllables: re·lie·ve. Understanding this syllable division is essential for correct pronunciation and spelling.

📝 Syllable Breakdown

• re — 1st syllable
• lie — 2nd syllable
• ve — 3rd syllable

🔊 Pronunciation Guide

The phonetic transcription of relieve:

• IPA: /ɹɪˈliːv/

📖 Definitions

1. relieve (third-person singular simple present relieves, present participle relieving, simple past and past participle relieved)
2. To release (someone) from or of a difficulty, unwanted task, responsibility etc. [from 16th c.]

📚 Word Origin & History

From Late Middle English releven, from Old French relever, specifically from the conjugated forms such as (jeo) relieve (“I lift up”), and its source, Latin relevo (“to lift up, lighten, relieve, alleviate”), combined form of re- (“back”) + levo (“to lift”). Doublet of relevate. Compare levant, levity, etc.

✓ Why Learn Syllable Division?

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

Word	Syllables	Division
relieve	3	re·lie·ve
relief	2	re-lief
Ralph	1	ralph
relive	3	re-li-ve

🔗 Related Words

Explore syllable divisions of words related to relieve:

rel, rely, relax, relay, relic, relate, relent, relict.