How many syllables in “selfishness”?
syllables in "selfishness"
Word details
Syllables
3
sel · fis · hness
Letters
11
s · e · l · f · i · s · h · n · e · s · s
Scrabble
17
points
Scrabble letter values
Count another word
About the word “selfishness”
The word “selfishness” contains 3 syllables, divided as sel · fis · hness. It has 11 letters.
FAQ
How many syllables does "selfishness" have?
"selfishness" has 3 syllables.
How do you divide "selfishness" into syllables?
"selfishness" is divided into syllables as: sel · fis · hness.
What is the Scrabble score for "selfishness"?
The Scrabble score for "selfishness" is 17 points.
Using “selfishness” in writing
Three-syllable words like "selfishness" (sel · fis · hness) 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, “selfishness” 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.