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Couplet Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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couplet

[ˈkʌplɪt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

poetry form

A couplet is a pair of successive rhyming lines in a poem. They typically have the same meter or rhythm, creating a pleasing musical quality. Couplet can stand alone as a complete thought or be part of a larger poem.

Synonyms

duo, pair, two-line stanza.

Examples of usage

  • The poet wrote a couplet to express his feelings.
  • In Shakespeare's sonnets, many couplets conclude a theme.
  • The couplet added a touch of humor to the poem.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • Couplets have been used by poets since ancient times, with a famous early example found in the work of Geoffrey Chaucer.
  • In Shakespeare's plays, couplets often mark the end of a scene or a thought, drawing emphasis to the characters' dialogue.

Music

  • Many song lyrics use couplets to create catchy rhymes, making the song easier to remember.
  • Famous artists like Bob Dylan and The Beatles often structure their verses in couplet form for lyrical impact.

Rhetoric

  • Couplets can be used for persuasion in speeches, where the poet or speaker balances two ideas or themes.
  • They are a popular technique in nursery rhymes, helping children with language patterns and memory retention.

Visual Arts

  • The visual representation of couplets can be found in calligraphy and illuminated manuscripts, where text is artistically displayed.
  • Some modern artists experiment with couplet structures in graphic novels, integrating poetry into visual storytelling.

Origin of 'couplet'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old French 'couplet,' meaning 'a pair,' indicating the two lines that form a unit.
  • Its roots trace back to the Latin word 'copula,' which means 'to link,' highlighting the connection between the two lines.

The term 'couplet' originates from the Middle English word 'couplet', which in turn comes from the Old French word 'couplet', meaning 'a pair'. This Old French term is derived from 'couple', which refers to two things that are joined together. The usage of couplets in poetry dates back to ancient times, with notable examples found in classical Greek and Roman poetry. The couplet form became particularly popular during the Renaissance, especially in English poetry, as seen in the works of Geoffrey Chaucer and William Shakespeare. Couplets are often used to convey concise thoughts or whimsical ideas, and they remain a favored structure in modern poetry as well.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,777, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.