The spelling of the word "heflin" can be explained using IPA phonetic transcription. The word is pronounced /ˈhɛflɪn/ with the stress on the first syllable. The "h" at the beginning is pronounced as an aspiration /h/ sound. The "e" in the first syllable is pronounced as a short vowel /ɛ/ sound. The "fl" in the second syllable is pronounced as a blend /fl/ sound. The "i" in the second syllable is pronounced as a short vowel /ɪ/ sound. Finally, the "n" at the end is pronounced as a nasal consonant /n/ sound.