What Words have the Sound of Long A Spelled with Eigh?

The English language is rich with diverse spelling patterns that can represent similar sounds. One such example is the long “A” sound, which is sometimes spelled using the letter combination “eigh.” This unique spelling is found in several common words, making it an interesting feature of English orthography.

Understanding the Long A Sound

The long “A” sound is pronounced as /eɪ//eɪ/, similar to the vowel sound in the word “say.” In some cases, this sound is spelled with “eigh,” derived from older English and historical spelling conventions.

Words with “EIGH” Representing Long A

Here are some common words where “eigh” produces the long A sound:

1. Eight
   • The number 8.
   • Example: “There are eight slices of pizza.”
2. Eighth
   • The ordinal form of eight.
   • Example: “She finished in eighth place.”
3. Weigh
   • To measure weight.
   • Example: “The grocer will weigh the apples.”
4. Weight
   • A measure of how heavy something is.
   • Example: “She lifted a heavy weight at the gym.”
5. Neighbor
   • A person living nearby.
   • Example: “Our new neighbor brought us cookies.”
6. Neighbour (British spelling)
   • The British English spelling of “neighbor.”
   • Example: “She is a friendly neighbour.”
7. Sleigh
   • A vehicle for traveling on snow, often pulled by horses or reindeer.
   • Example: “Santa’s sleigh is full of presents.”
8. Freight
   • Goods transported in bulk, often by ship, train, or truck.
   • Example: “The freight arrived at the warehouse today.”
9. Reign
   • The period during which a sovereign rules.
   • Example: “Queen Elizabeth’s reign was historic.”
10. Vein
    • A blood vessel or a vein of mineral in rock.
    • Example: “The doctor found a vein for the injection.”

Why Does “EIGH” Spell Long A?

The “eigh” spelling traces back to Middle English and Old English, where words often incorporated influences from other languages, like Old Norse and French. Over time, “eigh” became a standardized way to represent the long A sound in certain words.

Tips for Remembering “EIGH” Words

1. Recognize Patterns: Many “eigh” words are related to numbers (e.g., eight, eighth) or measurements (e.g., weigh, weight).
2. Use Mnemonics: Create memory aids, such as “Santa’s sleigh weighs a lot.”
3. Practice Spelling: Write and pronounce “eigh” words regularly to reinforce your knowledge.