How many syllables in “erstwhile”?
syllables in "erstwhile"
Word details
Syllables
3
erst · whi · le
Letters
9
e · r · s · t · w · h · i · l · e
Scrabble
15
points
Scrabble letter values
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About the word “erstwhile”
The word “erstwhile” contains 3 syllables, divided as erst · whi · le. It has 9 letters.
FAQ
How many syllables does "erstwhile" have?
"erstwhile" has 3 syllables.
How do you divide "erstwhile" into syllables?
"erstwhile" is divided into syllables as: erst · whi · le.
What is the Scrabble score for "erstwhile"?
The Scrabble score for "erstwhile" is 15 points.
Using “erstwhile” in writing
Three-syllable words like "erstwhile" (erst · whi · le) 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, “erstwhile” is worth 15 base points before any board multipliers. That's a high-scoring word — prioritize double or triple word score squares to maximize your turn.