twelvehorsepower
The word 'twelve-horsepower' is a compound adjective divided into four syllables: twelve-horse-pow-er. Primary stress falls on 'horse'. The morphemes derive from Old English, Proto-Germanic, and Latin roots. Syllable division follows standard vowel-consonant rules.
Definitions
- 1
Relating to or denoting an engine or motor with a power output of twelve horsepower.
“The twelve-horsepower engine was sufficient for the small boat.”
Stress pattern
Primary stress on the second syllable of 'horsepower' (ˈhɔːsˌpaʊə), secondary stress on 'twelve'
Syllables
twelve — Open syllable, vowel followed by consonant cluster.. horse — Closed syllable, vowel followed by consonant.. pow — Open syllable, diphthong followed by consonant.. er — Syllabic consonant, weak syllable.
Similar Words
Vowel-Consonant Division
Syllables are typically divided after vowels.
Consonant Cluster Rule
Consonant clusters are maintained within a syllable if pronounceable.
Syllabic Consonant
A consonant can form a syllable when preceded by a vowel and followed by another consonant.
- Hyphenated compound noun allows for some flexibility in perceived boundaries, but standard pronunciation prevails.
Nearby Words
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