How many syllables in “kowtow”?
syllables in "kowtow"
Word details
Syllables
2
kow · tow
Letters
6
k · o · w · t · o · w
Scrabble
16
points
Scrabble letter values
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About the word “kowtow”
The word “kowtow” contains 2 syllables, divided as kow · tow. It has 6 letters.
FAQ
How many syllables does "kowtow" have?
"kowtow" has 2 syllables.
How do you divide "kowtow" into syllables?
"kowtow" is divided into syllables as: kow · tow.
What is the Scrabble score for "kowtow"?
The Scrabble score for "kowtow" is 16 points.
Using “kowtow” in writing
Two-syllable words like "kowtow" (kow · tow) 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, “kowtow” 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.