How many syllables in “shepherd”?
syllables in "shepherd"
Word details
Syllables
2
shep · herd
Letters
8
s · h · e · p · h · e · r · d
Scrabble
17
points
Scrabble letter values
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About the word “shepherd”
The word “shepherd” contains 2 syllables, divided as shep · herd. It has 8 letters.
FAQ
How many syllables does "shepherd" have?
"shepherd" has 2 syllables.
How do you divide "shepherd" into syllables?
"shepherd" is divided into syllables as: shep · herd.
What is the Scrabble score for "shepherd"?
The Scrabble score for "shepherd" is 17 points.
Using “shepherd” in writing
Two-syllable words like "shepherd" (shep · herd) 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, “shepherd” 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.