How many syllables in “penknife”?
syllables in "penknife"
Word details
Syllables
2
penk · nife
Letters
8
p · e · n · k · n · i · f · e
Scrabble
17
points
Scrabble letter values
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About the word “penknife”
The word “penknife” contains 2 syllables, divided as penk · nife. It has 8 letters.
FAQ
How many syllables does "penknife" have?
"penknife" has 2 syllables.
How do you divide "penknife" into syllables?
"penknife" is divided into syllables as: penk · nife.
What is the Scrabble score for "penknife"?
The Scrabble score for "penknife" is 17 points.
Using “penknife” in writing
Two-syllable words like "penknife" (penk · nife) 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, “penknife” is worth 17 base points before any board multipliers. That's a high-scoring word — prioritize double or triple word score squares to maximize your turn.