How Many Syllables In Handcuff?
2syllables
Handcuff has 2 syllables, hand-cuff. It is a disyllabic word.
handcuff
/ˈhænd.kʌf/ UK /ˈhænd.kʌf/ US
Stress
The main stress falls on the first syllable, hand.
Syllable Structure
CVCC/CVC
Division By Sound
/hænd.kʌf/
Division By Letters
hand-cuff
A spelling guide that follows the sound division.
Tree Diagram Of Handcuff
S syllable, O onset, R rime, P peak, C coda, Ø no coda.
Parts Of Each Syllable
| Syllable | Onset | Peak | Coda | Pattern | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 primary stress | h | æ | nd | CVCC | closed |
| 2 | k | ʌ | f | CVC | closed |
Why Handcuff Divides Here
- Syllable 1 is stressed and has the short vowel /æ/, so it keeps a coda /nd/.
Questions Students Ask
How many syllables are in handcuff?
Handcuff has 2 syllables, hand-cuff. In British English it is transcribed /ˈhænd.kʌf/.
Which syllable is stressed in handcuff?
The first syllable, hand, carries the main stress.
What is the syllable structure of handcuff?
Handcuff has the structure CVCC/CVC, where C is a consonant sound and V is a vowel sound.
How do you divide handcuff into syllables?
By sound, hænd.kʌf. By letters, as a spelling guide, hand-cuff.