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Hyphenate: meaning, definitions and examples

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hyphenate

 

[ ˈhaɪ fə neɪt ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

word formation

To hyphenate means to connect two or more words or syllables with a hyphen (-). This process is commonly used in writing to create compound words, clarify meaning, or prevent ambiguity. For example, 'mother-in-law' and 'well-known' are examples of hyphenated words. Hyphenation is also utilized in line breaking to ensure text flows properly in typesetting. It plays a significant role in ensuring readability and proper understanding in written language.

Synonyms

connect, join, link.

Examples of usage

  • It's common to hyphenate compound adjectives.
  • Make sure to hyphenate long words at the end of the line.
  • The teacher instructed students to hyphenate between syllables.

Translations

Translations of the word "hyphenate" in other languages:

🇵🇹 hifenar

🇮🇳 हाइफ़न करना

🇩🇪 trennen

🇮🇩 memisahkan

🇺🇦 гіпенувати

🇵🇱 dzielić

🇯🇵 ハイフネートする

🇫🇷 hyphéniser

🇪🇸 hiphenar

🇹🇷 kısa çizgi ile ayırmak

🇰🇷 하이픈으로 나누다

🇸🇦 فصل باستخدام الشرطة

🇨🇿 rozdělit

🇸🇰 rozdeliť

🇨🇳 用连字符连接

🇸🇮 hiphenirati

🇮🇸 hýfa

🇰🇿 гипендеу

🇬🇪 ჰიფენირება

🇦🇿 hifləndirmək

🇲🇽 hiphenar

Etymology

The term 'hyphenate' originates from the noun 'hyphen,' which comes from the Greek word 'hyphen,' meaning 'in one.' The practice of using hyphens in written language has been present since the early days of printing, evolving through various style guides and linguistic changes. Initially, hyphens were used to clarify phrases and ensure proper reading flow. Over time, the rules of hyphenation have been refined and debated, leading to the development of modern usage. The verb form 'hyphenate' appeared in the 19th century, reflecting the evolving practices around compound word formation and punctuation in English. As language continues to evolve, hyphenation remains an essential aspect of proper grammar and clarity in communication.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,122, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.