How many syllables in “hesitate”?
syllables in "hesitate"
Word details
Syllables
3
hes · ita · te
Letters
8
h · e · s · i · t · a · t · e
Scrabble
11
points
Scrabble letter values
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About the word “hesitate”
The word “hesitate” contains 3 syllables, divided as hes · ita · te. It has 8 letters.
FAQ
How many syllables does "hesitate" have?
"hesitate" has 3 syllables.
How do you divide "hesitate" into syllables?
"hesitate" is divided into syllables as: hes · ita · te.
What is the Scrabble score for "hesitate"?
The Scrabble score for "hesitate" is 11 points.
Using “hesitate” in writing
Three-syllable words like "hesitate" (hes · ita · te) 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, “hesitate” is worth 11 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.