How Many Syllables In Define?
2syllables
Define has 2 syllables, de-fine. It is a disyllabic word.
define
/dɪˈfaɪn/ UK /dɪˈfaɪn/ US
Stress
The main stress falls on the second syllable, fine.
Syllable Structure
CV/CVC
Division By Sound
/dɪ.faɪn/
Division By Letters
de-fine
A spelling guide that follows the sound division.
Tree Diagram Of Define
S syllable, O onset, R rime, P peak, C coda, Ø no coda.
Parts Of Each Syllable
| Syllable | Onset | Peak | Coda | Pattern | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | d | ɪ | – | CV | open |
| 2 primary stress | f | aɪ | n | CVC | closed |
Why Define Divides Here
- Between syllables 1 and 2, /f/ goes to the right, following the Maximal Onsets Principle.
Questions Students Ask
How many syllables are in define?
Define has 2 syllables, de-fine. In British English it is transcribed /dɪˈfaɪn/.
Which syllable is stressed in define?
The second syllable, fine, carries the main stress.
What is the syllable structure of define?
Define has the structure CV/CVC, where C is a consonant sound and V is a vowel sound.
How do you divide define into syllables?
By sound, dɪ.faɪn. By letters, as a spelling guide, de-fine.