phenolphthalein
Syllables
phe-nol-phthal-ein
Pronunciation
/ˌfiːnoʊlˈfθæliːn/
Stress
0101
Morphemes
phenol- + phthal- + -ein
Phenol-phthalein is divided into four syllables: phe-nol-phthal-ein. It's a noun of Greek origin, functioning as a chemical name. The 'phth' cluster and stress pattern are notable features. Syllabification follows standard onset-rime division rules, accommodating the unusual consonant cluster.
Definitions
- 1
A synthetic organic compound, C₂₀H₁₄O₄, used as a pH indicator. It is colorless in acidic solutions and pink in alkaline solutions.
“Phenol-phthalein is often used in titrations to determine the endpoint of a reaction.”
Stress pattern
Secondary stress on 'phenol' and primary stress on the second syllable of 'phthalein' (/ˈfθæliːn/).
Syllables
phe — Open syllable, onset consonant /f/, vowel /ɛ/.. nol — Open syllable, onset consonants /n/, vowel /oʊ/, coda consonant /l/.. phthal — Open syllable, onset consonant cluster /fθ/, vowel /æ/.. ein — Open syllable, onset consonant /n/, vowel /iː/.
Word Parts
phenol-
Derived from Greek *phainō* (to shine, appear) + *ol* (suffix denoting alcohol-like compounds). Indicates the presence of a phenolic group.
phthal-
Derived from Greek *phthalos* (ivory, moth). Core component denoting the specific aromatic structure.
-ein
Derived from Greek, commonly used in chemical nomenclature. Indicates a chemical compound.
Similar Words
Onset-Rime Division
Syllables are divided based on the onset (initial consonant(s)) and rime (vowel and any following consonants).
Consonant Cluster Rule
Consonant clusters are generally kept together in the onset or coda of a syllable.
Vowel Sound Rule
Each syllable must contain a vowel sound.
- The 'phth' cluster is a key exception, being an unusual but accepted feature of words derived from Greek.
- The stress pattern is somewhat unusual, with secondary stress on the first part of the compound.
Nearby Words
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