How many syllables in “penalty”?
syllables in "penalty"
Word details
Syllables
3
pe · nal · ty
Letters
7
p · e · n · a · l · t · y
Scrabble
12
points
Scrabble letter values
Count another word
About the word “penalty”
The word “penalty” contains 3 syllables, divided as pe · nal · ty. It has 7 letters.
FAQ
How many syllables does "penalty" have?
"penalty" has 3 syllables.
How do you divide "penalty" into syllables?
"penalty" is divided into syllables as: pe · nal · ty.
What is the Scrabble score for "penalty"?
The Scrabble score for "penalty" is 12 points.
Using “penalty” in writing
Three-syllable words like "penalty" (pe · nal · ty) 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, “penalty” is worth 12 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 “penalty”
The letters in “penalty” can be rearranged to spell one other word: aplenty.