How many syllables are in the word both?

The word 'both' has one syllable.

When learning how to think of words in syllables, speak the word and notice when you naturally 'break up' the word.

As examples:

Say the word 'two'. The word 'two' has one syllable. You do not have any natural breaks when you speak it.

Now, say the word 'twofold'. The word 'twofold' has two syllables. You have a natural break in saying two--fold. (the dashes are used here to show there is a break)

Say the word 'will', as in "I will go to bed." Will has no natural breaks.

Now say the word 'willing'. Hear the pause between 'will-' and '-ing'. It has two syllables.