debilitate

How to Split "debilitate" into Syllables

The word debilitate is divided into 5 syllables: de·bi·li·ta·te. Understanding this syllable division is essential for correct pronunciation and spelling.

📝 Syllable Breakdown

• de — 1st syllable
• bi — 2nd syllable
• li — 3rd syllable
• ta — 4th syllable
• te — 5th syllable

🔊 Pronunciation Guide

The phonetic transcription of debilitate:

• IPA: /dɪˈbɪlɪteɪt/

📖 Definitions

1. “debilitate”, in Webster’s Revised Unabridged Dictionary, Springfield, Mass.: G. & C. Merriam, 1913, →OCLC.
2. William Dwight Whitney, Benjamin E[li] Smith, editors (1911), “debilitate”, in The Century Dictionary […], New York, N.Y.: The Century Co., →OCLC.

📚 Word Origin & History

From debilitatus, the past passive participle of Latin dēbilitō (“to weaken, debilitate”), from the adjective dēbilis (“weak”), itself from de- +‎ habilis (“able”). Equivalent to Latin dēbilitō +‎ -ate (verb-forming suffix). Borrowed from French débilité. Equivalent to debil +‎ -itate.

✓ Why Learn Syllable Division?

Understanding how to break down debilitate into syllables helps with:

• Correct pronunciation — Knowing syllable structure ensures accurate speech
• Improved spelling — Breaking words into chunks makes them easier to remember and write
• Reading fluency — Recognizing syllable patterns speeds up reading comprehension
• Poetry and lyrics — Syllable counting is essential for meter and rhythm
• Language learning — Non-native speakers benefit from syllable awareness

📊 Similar Words Comparison

Compare debilitate with related words to understand syllable patterns:

Word	Syllables	Division
debilitate	5	de·bi·li·ta·te
Debouillet	3	de-bouil-let
depopulate	5	de-po-pu-la-te
debility	4	de-bi-li-ty
deplete	3	de-ple-te

🔗 Related Words

Explore syllable divisions of words related to debilitate:

deb, Debs, debt, debar, Debby, debit, Debra, debug.