How many syllables in “shepherdess”?
syllables in "shepherdess"
Word details
Syllables
3
shep · her · dess
Letters
11
s · h · e · p · h · e · r · d · e · s · s
Scrabble
20
points
Scrabble letter values
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About the word “shepherdess”
The word “shepherdess” contains 3 syllables, divided as shep · her · dess. It has 11 letters.
FAQ
How many syllables does "shepherdess" have?
"shepherdess" has 3 syllables.
How do you divide "shepherdess" into syllables?
"shepherdess" is divided into syllables as: shep · her · dess.
What is the Scrabble score for "shepherdess"?
The Scrabble score for "shepherdess" is 20 points.
Using “shepherdess” in writing
Three-syllable words like "shepherdess" (shep · her · dess) 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, “shepherdess” is worth 20 base points before any board multipliers. That's a high-scoring word — prioritize double or triple word score squares to maximize your turn.