How many syllables in “basketball”?
syllables in "basketball"
Word details
Syllables
3
ba · sket · ball
Letters
10
b · a · s · k · e · t · b · a · l · l
Scrabble
18
points
Scrabble letter values
Count another word
About the word “basketball”
The word “basketball” contains 3 syllables, divided as ba · sket · ball. It has 10 letters.
FAQ
How many syllables does "basketball" have?
"basketball" has 3 syllables.
How do you divide "basketball" into syllables?
"basketball" is divided into syllables as: ba · sket · ball.
What is the Scrabble score for "basketball"?
The Scrabble score for "basketball" is 18 points.
Using “basketball” in writing
Three-syllable words like "basketball" (ba · sket · ball) create a rolling, flowing rhythm in verse. Depending on where the stress lands, they can form dactylic (DUM-da-da) or anapestic (da-da-DUM) feet — common in limericks, ballads, and song lyrics. In haiku, a single three-syllable word covers more than half of a short line.
In word games
In Scrabble and Words With Friends, “basketball” is worth 18 base points before any board multipliers. That's a high-scoring word — prioritize double or triple word score squares to maximize your turn.