Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
syllable
noun
/ˈsɪl.ə.bəl/
Definition
A syllable is a single, unbroken unit of spoken language that typically contains a vowel sound and may include surrounding consonants.
Examples
- In the word ‘banana’, there are three syllables: ba-na-na.
- Clapping for each syllable can help children learn to break words down into their parts.
- Some languages, like Japanese, are often considered to be syllable-timed, meaning each syllable takes approximately the same amount of time to say.
Meaning
Syllables are the building blocks of words and are important in determining the rhythm and sound of spoken language.
Synonyms
- beat
- segment
- mora
