wail

How to Split "wail" into Syllables

The word wail is divided into 1 syllables: wail. Understanding this syllable division is essential for correct pronunciation and spelling.

📝 Syllable Breakdown

• wail — 1st syllable

🔊 Pronunciation Guide

The phonetic transcription of wail:

• IPA: /weɪl/

📖 Definitions

1. wail (third-person singular simple present wails, present participle wailing, simple past and past participle wailed)
2. A prolonged cry, usually high-pitched, especially as of grief or anguish. [from 15th c.]

📚 Word Origin & History

c. 1300, Middle English weilen, waylen (“to sob, cry, wail”), from Old Norse væla (“to wail”), from væ, vei (“woe”), from Proto-Germanic *wai (whence also Old English wā (“woe”) (English woe)), from Proto-Indo-European *wáy. The verb is first attested in the intransitive sense; the transitive sense developed in mid-14th c.. The noun came from the verb. From Old Norse val (“choice”). Compare Icelandic velja (“to choose”). More at wale. Blend of wala (“not”) +‎ il...

✓ Why Learn Syllable Division?

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

Word	Syllables	Division
wail	1	wail
wily	2	wi-ly
Wall	1	wall
wooly	2	woo-ly
Wiley	2	wi-ley

🔗 Related Words

Explore syllable divisions of words related to wail:

waif, wain, wait, waist, Waite, waive, wailer, waiter.