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Doggerel: meaning, definitions and examples

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doggerel

 

[ ˈdɒɡərəl ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

poetry form

Doggerel is a type of poetry that is often characterized by irregular rhythm and rhyme. It is typically considered to be of low quality or trivial in nature. Despite its simplicity, doggerel can be amusing and serve as a form of satire. It might be used for humorous purposes, social commentary, or light-hearted entertainment.

Synonyms

ballad, limerick, rhyme, verse

Examples of usage

  • The poet's doggerel made everyone laugh.
  • He recited his doggerel during the party.
  • Her doggerel was amusing yet insightful.
  • They enjoyed the doggerel in the comic strip.

Translations

Translations of the word "doggerel" in other languages:

🇵🇹 poema de qualidade inferior

🇮🇳 निरर्थक कविता

🇩🇪 schlechte Lyrik

🇮🇩 puisi jelek

🇺🇦 дурна поезія

🇵🇱 niedbała poezja

🇯🇵 質の低い詩

🇫🇷 poésie de mauvaise qualité

🇪🇸 poesía de mala calidad

🇹🇷 kalitesiz şiir

🇰🇷 질 낮은 시

🇸🇦 شعر رديء

🇨🇿 špatná poezie

🇸🇰 zlý verš

🇨🇳 劣质诗歌

🇸🇮 slaba poezija

🇮🇸 lélegur ljóð

🇰🇿 нашар поэзия

🇬🇪 დაბალი პოეზია

🇦🇿 keyfiyyətsiz şeir

🇲🇽 poesía de mala calidad

Etymology

The word 'doggerel' originates from the late 16th century, derived from the term 'dogger,' which referred to a type of low, rough sea or a fishing vessel operating in shallow waters. This reflects the idea of something being of inferior quality or less refined, much like the poetry form itself. The term was used to describe poetry that was considered crude or simplistic. The connection between the term and its meaning might suggest that just as a low-quality or poorly made boat might not be taken seriously, the same is true for poetry that lacks sophistication. Over time, 'doggerel' has been used to denote light and often humorous verse that may not meet the standards of traditional poetry. Its use in literary criticism often implies a sort of playful contempt for the work being discussed, indicating an intention to amuse rather than to provoke deep thought or emotion.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,056 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.