How many syllables in “despondence”?
syllables in "despondence"
Word details
Syllables
3
desp · onde · nce
Letters
11
d · e · s · p · o · n · d · e · n · c · e
Scrabble
17
points
Scrabble letter values
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About the word “despondence”
The word “despondence” contains 3 syllables, divided as desp · onde · nce. It has 11 letters.
FAQ
How many syllables does "despondence" have?
"despondence" has 3 syllables.
How do you divide "despondence" into syllables?
"despondence" is divided into syllables as: desp · onde · nce.
What is the Scrabble score for "despondence"?
The Scrabble score for "despondence" is 17 points.
Using “despondence” in writing
Three-syllable words like "despondence" (desp · onde · nce) 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, “despondence” is worth 17 base points before any board multipliers. That's a high-scoring word — prioritize double or triple word score squares to maximize your turn.