How many syllables in “defend”?
syllables in "defend"
Word details
Syllables
2
de · fend
Letters
6
d · e · f · e · n · d
Scrabble
11
points
Scrabble letter values
Count another word
About the word “defend”
The word “defend” contains 2 syllables, divided as de · fend. It has 6 letters.
FAQ
How many syllables does "defend" have?
"defend" has 2 syllables.
How do you divide "defend" into syllables?
"defend" is divided into syllables as: de · fend.
What is the Scrabble score for "defend"?
The Scrabble score for "defend" is 11 points.
Using “defend” in writing
Two-syllable words like "defend" (de · fend) 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, “defend” is worth 11 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.
Anagrams of “defend”
The letters in “defend” can be rearranged to spell one other word: fended.