About "sapphire"
How to Split "sapphire" into Syllables
The word sapphire is divided into 2 syllables: sapphi·re. Understanding this syllable division is essential for correct pronunciation and spelling.
📝 Syllable Breakdown
- sapphi — 1st syllable
- re — 2nd syllable
🔊 Pronunciation Guide
The phonetic transcription of sapphire:
- IPA: /ˈsæf.aɪ̯ə(ɹ)/
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📖 Definitions
- sapphire (countable and uncountable, plural sapphires)
- Any of the butterflies in the southern Asian lycaenid genus Heliophorus or the African lycaenid genus Iolaus.
📚 Word Origin & History
From Middle English saphir, from Old French saphir, from Latin sapphir, sappir, sapphīrus, from Ancient Greek σάπφειρος (sáppheiros, “precious stone, gem”), from a Semitic language such as Hebrew סַפִּיר (sappī́r, “lapis lazuli”), originally from Assyrian Akkadian šipirtu (“lapis lazuli”).
✓ Why Learn Syllable Division?
Understanding how to break down sapphire 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 sapphire with related words to understand syllable patterns:
| Word | Syllables | Division |
|---|---|---|
| sapphire | 2 | sapphi·re |
| skiver | 2 | skiv-er |
| Speer | 2 | spe-er |
| shopper | 2 | shopp-er |
| sapper | 2 | sapp-er |
🔗 Related Words
Explore syllable divisions of words related to sapphire:
SAP, sappy, sapper, Sappho, sapient, sapless, sapling, Sapporo.