Rhythmical - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

music, movement

Rhythmical refers to something that has a recurring or patterned beat or flow, often associated with music and dance. It describes the regular alternation of sounds, silences, or movements that create a sense of timing and pace. Rhythmical patterns help to establish a sense of order and create a feeling of motion or energy in a piece. This quality is essential in various forms of art, including music, poetry, and dance.

Synonyms

measured, musical, regular, steady, syncopated.

Examples of usage

The rhythmical beat of the drums energized the crowd.
She moved in a rhythmical manner, swaying to the music.
The poem's rhythmical flow made it easy to recite.
His speech had a rhythmical cadence that captivated listeners.

Interesting Facts

Music

In music, rhythm refers to the timing of sounds and silences, creating a structured flow.
Different music genres use rhythm in unique ways, from steady beats in pop music to complex patterns in jazz.

Dance

Dance styles like ballet and hip-hop heavily rely on rhythm, allowing dancers to express emotions through movement.
Choreography often aligns with music’s rhythm, enhancing the storytelling aspect of dance.

Psychology

Research shows that rhythmic patterns can influence mood and memory, helping with learning and relaxation.
When we hear a familiar rhythm, our bodies instinctively react, often wanting to move or dance along.

Literature

In poetry, rhythmical structure enhances the beauty of language, contributing to the poem's musicality.
Writers use various rhythmical patterns to create a specific mood or feeling in their work.

Origin of 'rhythmical'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from the Greek word 'rhythmos', meaning 'measured flow or arrangement'.
It has been in the English language since the 15th century, originally associated with poetry and music.

The term 'rhythmical' derives from the Greek word 'rhythmos,' which means 'measured flow or movement.' The root of the word can be traced to the Proto-Indo-European language, where it is associated with the concept of a measured, regular pattern. The use of rhythm in language and music has been vital throughout history, forming the foundation of poetry and musical composition. Over time, the term has evolved to encompass not only musical tempo but also the broader notion of regularity and pattern in movement and sound across various forms of art. By the 19th century, 'rhythmical' began to be commonly used in English literature to describe not just music but also poetry and prose, emphasizing the importance of structure and flow in written and spoken language.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,527, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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21524 untied
21525 thousandth
21526 churned
21527 rhythmical
21528 sequenced
21529 apocryphal
21530 sympathized
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Rhythmical Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations