About "zebra"
How to Split "zebra" into Syllables
The word zebra is divided into 2 syllables: ze·bra. Understanding this syllable division is essential for correct pronunciation and spelling.
📝 Syllable Breakdown
- ze — 1st syllable
- bra — 2nd syllable
🔊 Pronunciation Guide
The phonetic transcription of zebra:
- IPA: /ˈzɛbɹə/
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📖 Definitions
- Any of three species of subgenus Hippotigris: Equus grevyi, E. quagga, or E. zebra, all with black and white stripes and native to Africa.
- Any of various papilionid butterflies of the subgenus Paranticopsis of the genus Graphium, having black and white markings.
📚 Word Origin & History
First attested in 1600. Borrowed from Italian zebra, from Portuguese zebra, zebro (“zebra”), from Old Galician-Portuguese enzebro, ezebra, azebra (“wild ass”), from earlier cebrario (882), ezebrario (897), from Vulgar Latin *eciferus, from Latin equiferus (“wild horse”) (Pliny), from equus (“horse”) + ferus (“wild”). (Can this(+) etymology be sourced?) While the word was traditionally pronounced with a long vowel in the first syllable in standard English, during the twentieth...
✓ Why Learn Syllable Division?
Understanding how to break down zebra 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 zebra with related words to understand syllable patterns:
| Word | Syllables | Division |
|---|---|---|
| zebra | 2 | ze·bra |
| zapper | 2 | zapp-er |
| zipper | 2 | zipp-er |
| zookeeper | 3 | zoo-keep-er |
| zephyr | 2 | ze-phyr |
🔗 Related Words
Explore syllable divisions of words related to zebra: