Limerick: meaning, definitions and examples
๐ค
limerick
[ หlษชmษหrษชk ]
poetic form
A limerick is a form of witty or humorous verse that consists of five lines. The first, second, and fifth lines typically have seven to nine syllables and share a rhyme, while the third and fourth lines have five to seven syllables and share a different rhyme. Limericks often contain a playful twist or punchline, and their rhythm is characterized by a bouncy, anapestic meter. They are known for their light-hearted nature and are often used in comic poetry.
Synonyms
comic verse, humorous rhyme, light poetry
Examples of usage
- There once was a cat in a hat.
- A limerick is often quite chat.
- In England, they sing.
- With humor, they bring.
- Joy to all with a spat.
Translations
Translations of the word "limerick" in other languages:
๐ต๐น limerick
๐ฎ๐ณ เคฒเคพเคเคฎเคฐเคฟเค
๐ฉ๐ช Limerick
๐ฎ๐ฉ limerick
๐บ๐ฆ ะปัะผะตัะธะบ
๐ต๐ฑ limerick
๐ฏ๐ต ใชใกใชใใฏ
๐ซ๐ท limerick
๐ช๐ธ limerick
๐น๐ท limerick
๐ฐ๐ท ๋ฆฌ๋จธ๋ฆญ
๐ธ๐ฆ ูุงูู ุฑูู
๐จ๐ฟ limerick
๐ธ๐ฐ limerick
๐จ๐ณ ๆๆฒน่ฏ
๐ธ๐ฎ limerick
๐ฎ๐ธ limerick
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะปัะผะตัะธะบ
๐ฌ๐ช แแแแแ แแแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ limerick
๐ฒ๐ฝ limerick
Word origin
The word 'limerick' is believed to have originated from the Irish city of Limerick, where this specific poetic form became popularly associated. The form gained prominence in the 19th century, notably through the works of Edward Lear, a British poet known for his humorous verse, which often included limericks. These playful, often nonsensical poems quickly became a staple of English comic poetry. The structure of the limerick is distinct with its characteristic rhyme scheme (AABBA) and rhythm, which makes it easily memorable and enjoyable. The limerick's appeal extends beyond its origin, as it has been embraced by poets and writers worldwide for its flexibility and capacity for humor.
Word Frequency Rank
Ranking #36,850, 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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