Count syllables in text, analyze per-word breakdowns, and check poetry meter instantly.
Syllable Counter is a free online text utility that lets you count syllables in text, analyze per-word breakdowns, and check poetry meter instantly instantly in your browser. Writers, editors, students, and content creators use this tool daily to save time on repetitive text manipulation tasks. No data is sent to any server — everything is processed locally on your device.
Syllables are counted by detecting vowel groups (a, e, i, o, u). The algorithm applies several rules: silent-e endings are subtracted, -le word endings count as one syllable, y acts as a vowel when not at the start, adjacent vowels typically count as one, and every word gets a minimum of one syllable. While no text-based algorithm is 100% perfect (English has many exceptions), this approach is accurate for the vast majority of common words.
Many poetic forms rely on precise syllable counts to create rhythm and meter. Iambic pentameter (used by Shakespeare) requires 10 syllables per line in an unstressed-stressed pattern. Limericks need a 8-8-5-5-8 pattern. Counting syllables also helps with song lyrics, rap verses, and any writing where cadence matters — spoken word performers use syllable awareness to control pacing and emphasis.
A traditional haiku has exactly 17 syllables arranged in three lines: 5 – 7 – 5. The first line has 5 syllables, the second has 7, and the third has 5. For example: "An old silent pond" (5) / "A frog jumps into the pond" (7) / "Splash! Silence again" (5). Use this tool to paste each line individually and verify the count. In Japanese haiku, the count is based on on (sound units), which differ slightly from English syllables.