How many syllables in “fatherless”?
syllables in "fatherless"
Word details
Syllables
3
fat · her · less
Letters
10
f · a · t · h · e · r · l · e · s · s
Scrabble
16
points
Scrabble letter values
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About the word “fatherless”
The word “fatherless” contains 3 syllables, divided as fat · her · less. It has 10 letters.
FAQ
How many syllables does "fatherless" have?
"fatherless" has 3 syllables.
How do you divide "fatherless" into syllables?
"fatherless" is divided into syllables as: fat · her · less.
What is the Scrabble score for "fatherless"?
The Scrabble score for "fatherless" is 16 points.
Using “fatherless” in writing
Three-syllable words like "fatherless" (fat · her · less) 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, “fatherless” is worth 16 base points before any board multipliers. That's a high-scoring word — prioritize double or triple word score squares to maximize your turn.