How many syllables in “belay”?
syllables in "belay"
Word details
Syllables
2
be · lay
Letters
5
b · e · l · a · y
Scrabble
10
points
Scrabble letter values
Count another word
About the word “belay”
The word “belay” contains 2 syllables, divided as be · lay. It has 5 letters.
FAQ
How many syllables does "belay" have?
"belay" has 2 syllables.
How do you divide "belay" into syllables?
"belay" is divided into syllables as: be · lay.
What is the Scrabble score for "belay"?
The Scrabble score for "belay" is 10 points.
Using “belay” in writing
Two-syllable words like "belay" (be · lay) 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, “belay” is worth 10 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.