What is a diphthong?

  • Two vowels that make only one vowel sound, the sound of an A, E, I, O, or U.
    • examples:  email, fail, spoil, hail, & boil
  • A diphthong is only one syllable because it makes only one vowel sound.

Cite This Source

Fun Fact
Orange” became the term for
a color in the 16th century.

Diphthong Examples

All diphthongs are highlighted below, in red:
  • see
  • tea
  • free
  • eat
  • meat
  • feet
  • teeth
  • school
  • cheese
  • mouse
Bibliography Citations
MLA   |    APA   |   Chicago Manual Style