Iambic: meaning, definitions and examples
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iambic
[ ˈɪæmbɪk ]
poetry meter
Iambic refers to a type of poetic meter that consists of an unstressed syllable followed by a stressed syllable. This rhythmic pattern creates a natural flow in the lines of poetry, often used in English literature, most notably in the works of Shakespeare and Milton.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The poem follows an iambic structure.
- Shakespeare often wrote in iambic pentameter.
- The rhythm of iambic verse is soothing.
- Understanding iambic meter can enhance poetry analysis.
Translations
Translations of the word "iambic" in other languages:
🇵🇹 iâmbico
🇮🇳 आइम्बिक
🇩🇪 iambisch
🇮🇩 iambik
🇺🇦 ямбічний
🇵🇱 jambiczny
🇯🇵 イアンビック
🇫🇷 iambique
🇪🇸 yámbico
🇹🇷 iyambik
🇰🇷 이암빅
🇸🇦 إيـامبيك
🇨🇿 iambický
🇸🇰 iambický
🇨🇳 抑扬格的
🇸🇮 iambičen
🇮🇸 íambískur
🇰🇿 ямбикалық
🇬🇪 იამბური
🇦🇿 iambik
🇲🇽 yámbico
Etymology
The term 'iambic' originates from the Greek word 'iambos,' which referred to a type of poetic foot containing an unstressed syllable followed by a stressed syllable. In ancient Greek literature, iambic meter was associated with satirical and humorous poetry. The use of iambic meter was later adopted in Latin and eventually became a dominant form in English poetry during the Renaissance. The iambic pentameter, which consists of five iambs per line, became especially popular, giving a rhythmic and lyrical quality to works of poets like John Milton and William Shakespeare. The enduring appeal of iambic meter lies in its ability to mimic natural speech while also allowing for artistic expression.