How many syllables in “defensively”?
syllables in "defensively"
Word details
Syllables
5
de · fen · si · ve · ly
Letters
11
d · e · f · e · n · s · i · v · e · l · y
Scrabble
21
points
Scrabble letter values
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About the word “defensively”
The word “defensively” contains 5 syllables, divided as de · fen · si · ve · ly. It has 11 letters.
FAQ
How many syllables does "defensively" have?
"defensively" has 5 syllables.
How do you divide "defensively" into syllables?
"defensively" is divided into syllables as: de · fen · si · ve · ly.
What is the Scrabble score for "defensively"?
The Scrabble score for "defensively" is 21 points.
Using “defensively” in writing
"defensively" (de · fen · si · ve · ly) has five syllables — exactly one full line of a haiku's 5-7-5 structure. That means this single word could stand alone as the opening or closing line of a haiku. In longer verse, five-syllable words create a slow, deliberate pace.
In word games
In Scrabble and Words With Friends, “defensively” is worth 21 base points before any board multipliers. That's a high-scoring word — prioritize double or triple word score squares to maximize your turn.