Poetry Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

📝

Add to dictionary

poetry

[ˈpəʊɪtri ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

writing

Poetry is a form of literature that uses aesthetic and rhythmic qualities of language to evoke meanings.

Synonyms

poem, rhyme, verse.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
poetry	Used to refer to the art form or literary genre that includes poems. Describes a collection or the overall craft. She always loved reading poetry in her free time His passion for poetry was evident in his personal library filled with collections of his favorite poets
verse	Can refer to a single line of a poem, or collectively to poetry in a more formal or structured sense. Often used in the context of lyrical or classical forms. She memorized every verse of the poem for her school recital The poet's verse was admired for its emotional depth and precise form
poem	Refers to a single piece of writing in the literary genre of poetry. A specific, standalone work. He wrote a beautiful poem for his mother's birthday The poem she recited brought tears to everyone's eyes
rhyme	Refers to a word, phrase, or line that has a sound that corresponds to another. Often used in poetry for musical effect. Children often learn to read with simple rhyme books The lines of the poem had a perfect rhyme, making it pleasant to the ear

Examples of usage

Her poetry captured the beauty of nature.
The poetry of the ancient Greeks is still studied today.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

artistic expression

Poetry is a way of expressing emotions and thoughts through creative and artistic language.

Synonyms

lyric, poem, verse.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
poetry	Used to describe the overall genre or art of written or spoken works that express emotions, ideas, or stories in a rhythmic and often metaphorical way. Emily Dickinson is one of the most influential figures in American poetry She published many collections of poetry during her lifetime
verse	Can refer to a single line or a group of lines within a poem or song. It can also denote sections of sacred texts. Each verse of the poem adds a new layer of meaning The first verse of this song is particularly catchy
poem	Refers to an individual work that falls under the genre of poetry; a piece of writing that is usually shorter and focused, often involving rhythm and metaphors. She wrote a poem for her mother’s birthday The poem captures the essence of their friendship perfectly
lyric	Typically used to describe the words of a song, or a type of poetry that expresses personal emotions, often in a musical way. The lyric of that new song is incredibly touching She writes beautiful lyric poetry that often explores themes of love and loss

Examples of usage

She found solace in writing poetry during difficult times.
His poetry reflected the turmoil of his inner struggles.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

genre

Poetry encompasses various forms such as sonnets, haikus, and free verse.

Synonyms

lyric, poem, verse.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
poetry	General term for literary work written in verse, intended to evoke emotions, often using meter and rhyme. Can refer to a collection or overall art of creating poems. She found solace in reading poetry every evening. The festival is a celebration of poetry from all around the world.
verse	Refers to a single line or group of lines in a poem, or any writing that has a rhythmic structure. Can also mean a specific part of a song or a chapter in the Bible. He recited the first verse of the famous poem. The song's verse is more mellow compared to its chorus.
poem	An individual piece of literary work written in verse, often with a specific structure and intended to convey emotions or tell a story. She wrote a beautiful poem about the changing seasons. The poem was published in the school magazine.
lyric	Refers to a type of poetry that expresses personal emotions or thoughts, often in the form of a song. Lyrics can also mean the words to a song. His lyrics are known for their deep emotional impact. She spent the afternoon writing lyrics for her new song.

Examples of usage

She experimented with different forms of poetry in her writing.
The poet excelled in crafting sonnets.

Translations

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

Origin of 'poetry'

The word 'poetry' has its roots in the Latin word 'poeta,' which means 'poet.' Poetry has been an integral part of human culture for centuries, with ancient civilizations like the Greeks and Romans valuing poetic expression. Over time, poetry has evolved into various forms, from epic poems to modern free verse. Poets have used this medium to explore themes of love, nature, politics, and the human experience.

See also: poetaster, poetic, poeticize, poetize, poetizer, poets.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,470, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.

...
2467 liberty
2468 programme
2469 muscle
2470 poetry
2471 sick
2472 climate
2473 adjustment
...