sterilize

Syllables:
ste·ri·li·ze
4 syllables
sterilize in syllables

About "sterilize"

Syllables
4
Letters
9
Language
EN

How to Split "sterilize" into Syllables

The word sterilize is divided into 4 syllables: ste·ri·li·ze. Understanding this syllable division is essential for correct pronunciation and spelling.

📝 Syllable Breakdown

  • ste — 1st syllable
  • ri — 2nd syllable
  • li — 3rd syllable
  • ze — 4th syllable

🔊 Pronunciation Guide

The phonetic transcription of sterilize:

  • IPA: /ˈstɛɹɪlaɪz/

Listen to Pronunciation

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📖 Definitions

  1. sterilize (third-person singular simple present sterilizes, present participle sterilizing, simple past and past participle sterilized) (American spelling, Oxford British English)
  2. “sterilize”, in Webster’s Revised Unabridged Dictionary, Springfield, Mass.: G. & C. Merriam, 1913, →OCLC.

📚 Word Origin & History

From sterile +‎ -ize. From French stérilisé, past participle of stériliser.

✓ Why Learn Syllable Division?

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

Word Syllables Division
sterilize 4 ste·ri·li·ze
southerlies 3 sou-ther-lies
starless 2 star-less
southerly's 3 sou-ther-ly's

🔗 Related Words

Explore syllable divisions of words related to sterilize:

Ste, stem, step, stet, stew, stead, steak, steal.

Frequently Asked Questions About "sterilize"

How many syllables does "sterilize" have?

sterilize has 4 syllables: ste·ri·li·ze. The word is divided into 4 distinct sound units that make up the complete pronunciation.

Where is the stress in "sterilize"?

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

How do you pronounce "sterilize"?

sterilize is pronounced as /ˈstɛɹɪlaɪz/ (IPA notation). The syllables are divided as: ste·ri·li·ze.

Is "sterilize" easy to spell?

Breaking sterilize into syllables helps with spelling: ste·ri·li·ze. By pronouncing each syllable separately, you can identify the letters more easily and avoid common spelling mistakes.

Why learn to divide "sterilize" 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.