Diaeresis

usgb/daɪˈerəsɪs/
noun

Two dots placed over a vowel in some languages, or in transliterated words, indicating that the vowel should be pronounced separately from the letter before it.

In the word 'zoölogy', a diaeresis is placed over the second 'o' to indicate that it should be spoken as a separate syllable.
Visual representation of "diaeresis" - Two dots placed over a vowel in some languages, or in transliterated words, indicating that the vowel should be pronounced separately from the letter before it.

Often appears as...

  • place a diaeresis
  • diaeresis over the vowel

Usage tips

Formal

Academic

Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "diaeresis"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Distinct Pronunciation

Remember diaeresis marks a vowel to be pronounced separately, avoiding blending sounds.

Illustration for Distinct Pronunciation
Coöperate is pronounced co-operate, not cooperate.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Not an Accent

Don't confuse diaeresis with accents; it doesn't change the vowel sound but separates syllables.

Illustration for Not an Accent
Reëlect, not re-élect.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Rare in English

Diaeresis is infrequently used in English; modern text often omits it.

Illustration for Rare in English
Zoology may drop the diaeresis becoming zoology.
Visual representation of the word "Diaeresis"

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