How many syllables in “punishment”?
syllables in "punishment"
Word details
Syllables
3
pu · nis · hment
Letters
10
p · u · n · i · s · h · m · e · n · t
Scrabble
17
points
Scrabble letter values
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About the word “punishment”
The word “punishment” contains 3 syllables, divided as pu · nis · hment. It has 10 letters.
FAQ
How many syllables does "punishment" have?
"punishment" has 3 syllables.
How do you divide "punishment" into syllables?
"punishment" is divided into syllables as: pu · nis · hment.
What is the Scrabble score for "punishment"?
The Scrabble score for "punishment" is 17 points.
Using “punishment” in writing
Three-syllable words like "punishment" (pu · nis · hment) 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, “punishment” 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.