How many syllables in “lightening”?
syllables in "lightening"
Word details
Syllables
3
lig · hte · ning
Letters
10
l · i · g · h · t · e · n · i · n · g
Scrabble
15
points
Scrabble letter values
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About the word “lightening”
The word “lightening” contains 3 syllables, divided as lig · hte · ning. It has 10 letters.
FAQ
How many syllables does "lightening" have?
"lightening" has 3 syllables.
How do you divide "lightening" into syllables?
"lightening" is divided into syllables as: lig · hte · ning.
What is the Scrabble score for "lightening"?
The Scrabble score for "lightening" is 15 points.
Using “lightening” in writing
Three-syllable words like "lightening" (lig · hte · ning) 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, “lightening” 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.