How many syllables in “ballast”?
syllables in "ballast"
Word details
Syllables
2
bal · last
Letters
7
b · a · l · l · a · s · t
Scrabble
9
points
Scrabble letter values
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About the word “ballast”
The word “ballast” contains 2 syllables, divided as bal · last. It has 7 letters.
FAQ
How many syllables does "ballast" have?
"ballast" has 2 syllables.
How do you divide "ballast" into syllables?
"ballast" is divided into syllables as: bal · last.
What is the Scrabble score for "ballast"?
The Scrabble score for "ballast" is 9 points.
Using “ballast” in writing
Two-syllable words like "ballast" (bal · last) are the building blocks of iambic rhythm — the most common meter in English poetry. If the stress falls on the second syllable (da-DUM), it forms a perfect iamb, ideal for sonnets and iambic pentameter. It also fits neatly into the 5- or 7-syllable lines of a haiku.
In word games
In Scrabble and Words With Friends, “ballast” is worth 9 base points before any board multipliers. A solid mid-range score. Landing a high-value letter on a double letter square will push your total higher.