patella

How to Split "patella" into Syllables

The word patella is divided into 3 syllables: pa·tel·la. Understanding this syllable division is essential for correct pronunciation and spelling.

📝 Syllable Breakdown

• pa — 1st syllable
• tel — 2nd syllable
• la — 3rd syllable

🔊 Pronunciation Guide

The phonetic transcription of patella:

• IPA: /pəˈtɛlə/

📖 Definitions

1. patella (plural patellas or patellae)
2. 2005, Roger E. Stevenson, 20: Limbs, Roger E. Stevenson, Judith G. Hall, Human Malformations and Related Anomalies, page 920,

📚 Word Origin & History

From Latin patella (“a small pan or dish, a plate; the kneepan, patella”), diminutive of patina (“a broad shallow dish, pan”). Doublet of paella. From Latin patella. From patina (“a broad shallow dish, pan”) or patera (“broad flat dish”) +‎ -la (diminutive suffix). From Latin patella, perhaps a learned borrowing. Found in a document in Spanish with heavy Leonese influence dating to the 15th century.

✓ Why Learn Syllable Division?

Understanding how to break down patella 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 patella with related words to understand syllable patterns:

Word	Syllables	Division
patella	3	pa·tel·la
pothole	3	po-tho-le
poodle	2	pood-le
pivotal	3	pi-vot-al
puddle	1	puddle

🔗 Related Words

Explore syllable divisions of words related to patella:

Pat, Pate, path, patch, Patel, pater, patio, Patna.