S

How many syllables in “dreadful”?

2

syllables in "dreadful"

dreadful
database

Word details

Syllables

2

dread · ful

Letters

8

d · r · e · a · d · f · u · l

Scrabble

13

points

Scrabble letter values

d2
r1
e1
a1
d2
f4
u1
l1

Count another word

About the word “dreadful

The word dreadful contains 2 syllables, divided as dread · ful. It has 8 letters.

FAQ

How many syllables does "dreadful" have?

"dreadful" has 2 syllables.

How do you divide "dreadful" into syllables?

"dreadful" is divided into syllables as: dread · ful.

What is the Scrabble score for "dreadful"?

The Scrabble score for "dreadful" is 13 points.

Using “dreadful” in writing

Two-syllable words like "dreadful" (dread · ful) 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, dreadful is worth 13 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.

Related articles