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