Syllable counter
Type any word or sentence to count its syllables and see where each word splits. Free, with no sign-up.
12 syllablesin 7 words
- The1
- but·ter·fly3
- land·ed2
- on1
- a1
- yel·low2
- flow·er2
TipSay each word slowly and clap once for every syllable.
How syllables work
A syllable is one beat in a word. Each syllable has one vowel sound, so to count syllables, listen for vowel sounds rather than looking for vowel letters.
Clap it
Say the word slowly and clap each beat: but·ter·fly gets three claps.
Feel your chin
Put a hand under your chin as you say the word. It drops once for each syllable.
Count vowel sounds
The word yel·low has two vowel sounds, so it has two syllables.
Ways to use it
Poems and songs
Count the beats in each line to keep the rhythm steady.
Haiku in 5-7-5
Check that the lines have 5, then 7, then 5 syllables.
Long spelling words
Split a long word into syllables and spell it one part at a time.
A haiku with long a words
- Rain taps on the roof5 syllables
- Pud·dles grow be·side the gate7 syllables
- Paint the gray day bright5 syllables
Questions
Is it always right?
It uses dictionary pronunciations. A few words, like fire or flower, can be said with one or two syllables, so we show the dictionary count.
Why is rain only one syllable?
It has two vowel letters, a and i, but they make one vowel sound. Count the sounds, not the letters.
Is the syllable counter free?
Yes. Count as many words and sentences as you like, with no sign-up.