What is the definition of ‘penultimate’ in terms of word syllables?

The term "penultimate" specifically refers to something that is second from the end. In relation to syllables, this means that if you have a word with multiple syllables, the penultimate syllable is the one that appears right before the final (or last) syllable. This is particularly relevant in linguistic discussions about stress patterns, pronunciation, and syllable counting. For example, in the word "unhappiness," the penultimate syllable is "hap." Understanding this term helps in various aspects of language study, including poetry and phonetics, where the placement and emphasis of syllables can significantly affect meaning and rhythm.