what

How to Split "what" into Syllables

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

📝 Syllable Breakdown

• what — 1st syllable

🔊 Pronunciation Guide

The phonetic transcription of what:

• IPA: /wɒt/

📖 Definitions

1. My kids set the neighbor's cat on fire. —They did what?
2. 2016, VOA Learning English (public domain)

📚 Word Origin & History

From Middle English what, from Old English hwæt (“what”), from Proto-West Germanic *hwat, from Proto-Germanic *hwat (“what”), from Proto-Indo-European *kʷód (“what”), neuter form of *kʷós (“who”). Cognate with Scots what, whit (“what”), North Frisian wat (“what”), Saterland Frisian wat (“what”), West Frisian wat (“what”), Dutch wat (“what”), Low German wat (“what”), German was (“what”), Danish hvad (“what”), Norwegian Bokmål hva (“what”),...

✓ Why Learn Syllable Division?

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

Word	Syllables	Division
what	1	what
who'd	1	who'd
witty	2	wit-ty
wait	1	wait
Wood	1	wood

🔗 Related Words

Explore syllable divisions of words related to what:

wham, whack, whale, wharf, whacky, whaler, whales, whammy.