Polysyllable

usgb/ˈpɑːlisɪləbl/
noun

A word that contains more than two syllables.

The word 'polysyllable' is itself a polysyllable because it has five syllables.
Visual representation of "polysyllable" - A word that contains more than two syllables

Often appears as...

  • long polysyllable
  • pronounce a polysyllable

Usage tips

Academic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "polysyllable"
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Pronunciation Practice

Break down polysyllables into smaller parts to pronounce them easily.

Illustration for Pronunciation Practice
For 'polysyllable,' say 'poly-syll-a-ble'.
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Academic Texts

Polysyllables are more common in formal writing, such as academic papers and textbooks.

Illustration for Academic Texts
The research paper was dense with polysyllables like 'uncharacteristically'.
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Word Contrast

Understanding polysyllables helps differentiate similar words with varying syllable counts.

Illustration for Word Contrast
Unlike 'happy,' 'unhappiness' is a polysyllable.
Visual representation of the word "Polysyllable"

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