What is a syllable?

A syllable is a unit of sound in a word, each built around one vowel sound. Clapping as you say a word helps you count its syllables. 'Cat' has one syllable, 'rabbit' has two (rab-bit) and 'butterfly' has three (but-ter-fly).

Examples

• cat has 1 syllable.
• rab-bit has 2 syllables.
• but-ter-fly has 3 syllables.

Quick facts

• Every syllable has one vowel sound.
• Clapping along to a word is an easy way to count its syllables.