How many syllables in “family”?
syllables in "family"
Word details
Syllables
3
fa · mi · ly
Letters
6
f · a · m · i · l · y
Scrabble
14
points
Scrabble letter values
Count another word
About the word “family”
The word “family” contains 3 syllables, divided as fa · mi · ly. It has 6 letters.
FAQ
How many syllables does "family" have?
"family" has 3 syllables.
How do you divide "family" into syllables?
"family" is divided into syllables as: fa · mi · ly.
What is the Scrabble score for "family"?
The Scrabble score for "family" is 14 points.
Using “family” in writing
Three-syllable words like "family" (fa · mi · ly) 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, “family” is worth 14 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.