How many syllables in “tarpaulin”?
syllables in "tarpaulin"
Word details
Syllables
3
tar · pau · lin
Letters
9
t · a · r · p · a · u · l · i · n
Scrabble
11
points
Scrabble letter values
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About the word “tarpaulin”
The word “tarpaulin” contains 3 syllables, divided as tar · pau · lin. It has 9 letters.
FAQ
How many syllables does "tarpaulin" have?
"tarpaulin" has 3 syllables.
How do you divide "tarpaulin" into syllables?
"tarpaulin" is divided into syllables as: tar · pau · lin.
What is the Scrabble score for "tarpaulin"?
The Scrabble score for "tarpaulin" is 11 points.
Using “tarpaulin” in writing
Three-syllable words like "tarpaulin" (tar · pau · lin) 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, “tarpaulin” is worth 11 base points before any board multipliers. A solid mid-range score. Landing a high-value letter on a double letter square will push your total higher.