How Do You Spell Necklace?

  • Eseandre Mordi

  • 16 Feb 2024

Every so often, even the simplest of words can trip us up, leading to mistakes that we later look back on with a hint of embarrassment. "Necklace" is one such word that, despite its frequent use, is sometimes misspelled. This article aims to shed light on the correct spelling of necklace, why such errors occur, and how to avoid them in the future.

Correct Spelling of Necklace

The correct spelling of the word is necklace. It comprises two parts: "neck," referring to the part of the body on which the item is usually worn, and "lace," suggesting a string or cord. Together, they form necklace, a term used to describe a piece of jewelry worn around the neck. Ensuring each component of the word is accurately spelled is key to avoiding common mistakes.

How to Remember the Correct Spelling

To remember the correct spelling of necklace, visualize the item as a lace around your neck. Associating the word with the body part (neck) and the item's nature (lace) can make memorization simpler. Another technique is the segmentation of the word into "neck" and "lace," then practicing each segment before combining them.

Common Spelling Mistakes

  • Neclace - Omitting the 'k' ignores the root word "neck."
  • Neklace - Misinterpreting the 'c' sound for a 'k'.
  • Neckless - Incorrectly ending with 'less' rather than 'lace.'

These errors typically arise from phonetic misunderstandings or hurried writing. Remembering the dual components of "neck" and "lace" can help avoid them.

Definition and Etymology of Necklace

A necklace is a piece of jewelry that hangs around the neck. It can be made from various materials, including metals, stones, beads, or pearls. The term originated in the late 16th century from the Old French word "nec" meaning "neck" and the suffix "-lace," implying something tied or secured. Together, they underscore the item's intimate connection with the neck area.

Transcription of Necklace

The standard transcription of necklace in the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) is /ˈnɛk.ləs/. This transcription helps denote the correct pronunciation, with an emphasis on the first syllable. Understanding this can also aid in remembering the spelling, as the phonetic components align closely with the written form.

Examples of Using Necklace

  • She wore a beautiful pearl necklace to the gala.
  • I'm looking for a necklace that complements my outfit.
  • He gifted her a diamond necklace for their anniversary.

These sentences demonstrate typical contexts in which the word necklace may appear, emphasizing its role as a noun in sentences.

FAQ

What does the word mean? 
It refers to an item of jewelry worn around the neck.

Words Closely Related: pendant, choker, locket.

Synonyms: chain, beads, string of pearls.

Differences in American and British Versions

The spelling of necklace remains consistent between American and British English. However, pronunciation nuances might exist, with certain accents affecting the intonation or stress of syllables. Despite these slight variations, the fundamental spelling and usage remain the same across different forms of English.

Academic Dictionaries Where You Can Find Necklace

  1. Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionary.
  2. Cambridge Dictionary.
  3. Collins English Dictionary.
  4. Oxford English Dictionary.


#Spelling #Jewelry #English #Grammar

Related articles