How many syllables in “payback”?
syllables in "payback"
Word details
Syllables
2
pay · back
Letters
7
p · a · y · b · a · c · k
Scrabble
20
points
Scrabble letter values
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About the word “payback”
The word “payback” contains 2 syllables, divided as pay · back. It has 7 letters.
FAQ
How many syllables does "payback" have?
"payback" has 2 syllables.
How do you divide "payback" into syllables?
"payback" is divided into syllables as: pay · back.
What is the Scrabble score for "payback"?
The Scrabble score for "payback" is 20 points.
Using “payback” in writing
Two-syllable words like "payback" (pay · back) 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, “payback” is worth 20 base points before any board multipliers. That's a high-scoring word — prioritize double or triple word score squares to maximize your turn.