• to syllabicate words at the end of a line of typing or writing. Divide
words of two or more syllables ONLY between syllables. Do not
divide single-syllable words.

• to separate portions of certain compound nouns, such as father-in-law
and editor-in-chief.

• between two words that comprise a single adjective (only when these
words precede the noun that they are describing). Examples include
moth-infected clothing and rosy-cheeked elf.

Note: If a word that comprises a single adjective ends with -ly, a
hyphen is not necessary. (The rudely behaved spectator was spoken to
by the usher.)

The reporter told the audience, ‘‘The New York Mets’ first world
championship [1969] was memorable for all New Yorkers.’’

William Shakespeare (known as the Bard of Avon [1564–1616]) wrote
many comedies, histories, and tragedies.