sailor

How to Split "sailor" into Syllables

The word sailor is divided into 2 syllables: sai·lor. Understanding this syllable division is essential for correct pronunciation and spelling.

📝 Syllable Breakdown

• sai — 1st syllable
• lor — 2nd syllable

🔊 Pronunciation Guide

The phonetic transcription of sailor:

• IPA: /ˈseɪ.lɚ/

📖 Definitions

1. A person who sails; one whose occupation is sailing or navigating ships or other waterborne craft.
2. In particular, a member of the crew of a (civilian or military) vessel, as opposed to a captain, admiral, etc.; a mariner; a common seaman.

📚 Word Origin & History

Alteration of earlier sailer, from Middle English sailer, sayler, saylere, equivalent to sail +‎ -or. Cognate with German Segler (“sailor”). Eclipsed non-native Middle English marinel, marynell (“sailor”) borrowed from Old French marinel (“sailor”). See mariner. Unadapted borrowing from English sailor. First attested in 1928.

✓ Why Learn Syllable Division?

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

Word	Syllables	Division
sailor	2	sai·lor
slier	2	sli-er
salary	3	sa-la-ry
sizzler	2	sizzl-er
scalar	2	sca-lar

🔗 Related Words

Explore syllable divisions of words related to sailor:

said, sail, saint, Saiph, saith, Saigon, sailing, saintly.