About "oxygen"
How to Split "oxygen" into Syllables
The word oxygen is divided into 3 syllables: o·xy·gen. Understanding this syllable division is essential for correct pronunciation and spelling.
📝 Syllable Breakdown
- o — 1st syllable
- xy — 2nd syllable
- gen — 3rd syllable
🔊 Pronunciation Guide
The phonetic transcription of oxygen:
- IPA: /ˈɒksɪd͡ʒən/
Listen to Pronunciation
Note: Audio requires JavaScript enabled
📖 Definitions
- oxygen (countable and uncountable, plural oxygens)
- The chemical element (symbol O) with an atomic number of 8 and relative atomic mass of 15.9994. It is a colorless and odorless gas.
📚 Word Origin & History
Borrowed from French oxygène (originally in the form principe oxygène, a variant of principe oxigine ‘acidifying principle’, suggested by Lavoisier), from Ancient Greek ὀξύς (oxús, “sharp”) + γένος (génos, “birth”), referring to oxygen's supposed role in the formation of acids. By surface analysis, oxy- + -gen. From Ancient Greek ὀξύς (oxús) + -gen. Borrowed from French oxygène.
✓ Why Learn Syllable Division?
Understanding how to break down oxygen 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 oxygen with related words to understand syllable patterns:
| Word | Syllables | Division |
|---|---|---|
| oxygen | 3 | o·xy·gen |
| Okinawan | 4 | o-ki-na-wan |
| Osman | 2 | o-sman |
| oaken | 2 | oa-ken |
| Oceania | 3 | o-cea-nia |
🔗 Related Words
Explore syllable divisions of words related to oxygen:
oxymora, oxymoron, Oxycontin, oxygenate, oxygenation, oxyacetylene.