Iamb: meaning, definitions and examples
๐ต
iamb
[ aษชรฆm ]
poetic meter
An iamb is a metrical foot commonly used in poetry, consisting of an unstressed syllable followed by a stressed syllable. It creates a da-DUM rhythm that is characteristic of much English verse, particularly in iambic pentameter. This metrical pattern provides a natural flow to the lines, making them sound melodious and engaging. Iambs are often employed by poets to enhance the emotional intensity and dynamic quality of their work.
Synonyms
iambic foot, metrical foot
Examples of usage
- Shall I compare thee to a summer's day?
- The quality of mercy is not strained.
- To be, or not to be, that is the question.
Translations
Translations of the word "iamb" in other languages:
๐ต๐น รญambico
๐ฎ๐ณ เคเคฏเคพเคฎเฅเคฌเคฟเค
๐ฉ๐ช Iambus
๐ฎ๐ฉ iamb
๐บ๐ฆ ัะผะฑ
๐ต๐ฑ jamb
๐ฏ๐ต ใคใขใณใ
๐ซ๐ท iambique
๐ช๐ธ iambo
๐น๐ท iamb
๐ฐ๐ท ์ด์๋ธ
๐ธ๐ฆ ูุงู ุจ
๐จ๐ฟ jamb
๐ธ๐ฐ jamb
๐จ๐ณ ๆฌๅธ
๐ธ๐ฎ jamb
๐ฎ๐ธ รญamb
๐ฐ๐ฟ ัะผะฑ
๐ฌ๐ช แแแแแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ iyamb
๐ฒ๐ฝ iambo
Word origin
The term 'iamb' originates from the Greek word 'iambos', which referred to a type of meter in poetry, specifically a metrical foot consisting of an unstressed syllable followed by a stressed syllable. In ancient Greece, iambic poetry was often associated with satirical and mocking verse, particularly in works by poets like Archilochus. The iambic form became prominent in Latin poetry, influencing various English poets throughout the centuries. Notably, during the Renaissance, the English playwright William Shakespeare popularized iambic pentameter, making it a central feature of his plays and sonnets. The rhythmic structure of the iamb has continued to play a crucial role in shaping English poetic traditions.
Word Frequency Rank
Ranking #39,375, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.
- ...
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- 39374 loiterer
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- 39376 depoliticize
- 39377 exhuming
- 39378 lugubriously
- ...