Definition

A word that has more than one syllable, typically more than three.

Example

The word 'unbelievable' is a polysyllable because it has five syllables.

Conversation

Have you ever tried to say a really long polysyllable word without messing up?

Not really, but I can imagine it would be tough!

I just learned that polysyllable means a word with more than three syllables.

That's interesting! I guess I need to practice my vocabulary more.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Polysyllable → It is formed from "poly-" (from Greek "polus", meaning many) and "syllable" (from Latin "syllaba", meaning a unit of speech). The word "polysyllable" refers to a word that has many syllables.

Memory Tip

Think of 'many' ('poly-') syllables in a word to remember that a polysyllable is a word with multiple syllables.

Visually Confused Words