What is the definition of a syllable?

A syllable is defined as a unit of pronunciation containing a vowel sound. It serves as a building block for words and can consist of just one vowel sound (like "a") or combine with consonants (such as "cat" or "bright"). This definition captures the essence of how syllables function in spoken language, affecting both rhythm and flow in speech.

Understanding a syllable in this way helps when breaking words down for reading and spelling. For instance, in the word "banana," there are three syllables: ba-na-na, each containing a vowel sound. This is crucial for phonetic skills, as syllables help learners recognize and articulate words correctly.