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Anapestic: meaning, definitions and examples

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anapestic

 

[ ˌæn.əˈpɛs.tɪk ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

poetic meter

Anapestic refers to a metrical foot used in poetry that consists of two short or unstressed syllables followed by one long or stressed syllable. This rhythm creates a lively and uplifting quality in verses, often used in comic or light-hearted poetry. Example lines featuring anapestic meter can be found in works of poets like Lord Byron and Tennyson. It plays a significant role in shaping the overall flow and musicality of poetic lines.

Examples of usage

  • The anapestic rhythm added a playful tone.
  • Many nursery rhymes employ anapestic meter.
  • Anapestic lines often convey a sense of excitement.

Translations

Translations of the word "anapestic" in other languages:

🇵🇹 anapéstico

🇮🇳 अनापेस्टिक

🇩🇪 anapästisch

🇮🇩 anapestis

🇺🇦 анапестичний

🇵🇱 anapestyczny

🇯🇵 アナペスティック

🇫🇷 anapeste

🇪🇸 anapéstico

🇹🇷 anapestik

🇰🇷 아나페스틱

🇸🇦 أناباستيك

🇨🇿 anapestický

🇸🇰 anapestický

🇨🇳 抑扬格的

🇸🇮 anapestičen

🇮🇸 anapestic

🇰🇿 анапестік

🇬🇪 ანაპესტური

🇦🇿 anapestik

🇲🇽 anapéstico

Word origin

The term 'anapestic' is derived from the Greek word 'anapestos,' meaning 'without foot' or 'having no feet.' In ancient Greek poetry, feet were the basic units of rhythm, and 'anapestic' specifically refers to the combination of non-stressed and stressed syllables. This metrical form was first described by classical poets and later adopted and adapted by English poets from the 17th century onwards. Anapestic meter gained prominence during the Romantic period, where poets eagerly experimented with unconventional rhythms to create dynamic and engaging poetry. Its playful and buoyant nature made it particularly appealing in children's literature and light verse, contributing to its enduring legacy in modern poetry.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,595, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.