How many syllables in “paternal”?
syllables in "paternal"
Word details
Syllables
3
pa · ter · nal
Letters
8
p · a · t · e · r · n · a · l
Scrabble
10
points
Scrabble letter values
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About the word “paternal”
The word “paternal” contains 3 syllables, divided as pa · ter · nal. It has 8 letters.
FAQ
How many syllables does "paternal" have?
"paternal" has 3 syllables.
How do you divide "paternal" into syllables?
"paternal" is divided into syllables as: pa · ter · nal.
What is the Scrabble score for "paternal"?
The Scrabble score for "paternal" is 10 points.
Using “paternal” in writing
Three-syllable words like "paternal" (pa · ter · nal) 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, “paternal” is worth 10 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.
Anagrams of “paternal”
The letters in “paternal” can be rearranged to spell 3 other words: parental, parlante, prenatal.