How many syllables in “northwestern”?
syllables in "northwestern"
Word details
Syllables
3
nor · thwe · stern
Letters
12
n · o · r · t · h · w · e · s · t · e · r · n
Scrabble
18
points
Scrabble letter values
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About the word “northwestern”
The word “northwestern” contains 3 syllables, divided as nor · thwe · stern. It has 12 letters.
FAQ
How many syllables does "northwestern" have?
"northwestern" has 3 syllables.
How do you divide "northwestern" into syllables?
"northwestern" is divided into syllables as: nor · thwe · stern.
What is the Scrabble score for "northwestern"?
The Scrabble score for "northwestern" is 18 points.
Using “northwestern” in writing
Three-syllable words like "northwestern" (nor · thwe · stern) 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, “northwestern” is worth 18 base points before any board multipliers. That's a high-scoring word — prioritize double or triple word score squares to maximize your turn.