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Sonnet Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sonnet

[หˆsษ’nษชt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

poetry

A sonnet is a poetic form consisting of 14 lines, typically written in iambic pentameter. Sonnets are commonly associated with themes of love, beauty, and mortality.

Synonyms

lyric, poem, verse.

Examples of usage

  • Shakespeare's sonnets are famous for their exploration of love and time.
  • Her sonnet captured the essence of longing and loss.
Context #2 | Noun

literature

In literature, a sonnet is a poem of a specific structure, often with a rhyme scheme and a set number of lines. Sonnets can be written in various forms, such as Petrarchan, Shakespearean, or Spenserian.

Synonyms

lyric, poem, verse.

Examples of usage

  • The poet composed a sonnet in iambic pentameter.
  • She analyzed the structure of the sonnet in her English class.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The word 'sonnet' comes from the Italian word 'sonetto,' which means 'little song.'
  • Sonnets have been popular since the 13th century, starting in Italy before spreading to other parts of Europe.
  • Petrarch, an Italian poet, is famous for developing the Petrarchan sonnet, which influenced many poets after him.

Types of Sonnets

  • There are mainly two types of sonnets: the Petrarchan (or Italian) and the Shakespearean (or English).
  • The Petrarchan sonnet consists of an octave and a sestet, usually following the rhyme scheme ABBAABBA for the octave.
  • Shakespearean sonnets contain three quatrains and a final couplet, often following the ABABCDCDEFEFGG rhyme scheme.

Pop Culture

  • Although sonnets are considered classic poetry, their form has influenced modern songwriting and hip-hop lyrics.
  • Notable figures like William Shakespeare and John Milton used the sonnet form to express love, beauty, and nature, leaving a lasting impact on literature.
  • Films and television shows occasionally incorporate sonnets, highlighting their romantic themes, like in adaptations of Shakespeareโ€™s works.

Literature

  • The themes of sonnets often revolve around love, time, beauty, and mortality, giving them depth and emotion.
  • Famous poets like Elizabeth Barrett Browning and John Keats are also known for their beautiful sonnets, pushing the boundaries of the form.
  • Contemporary poets have revitalized the sonnet form, using it to address modern themes and perspectives.

Psychology

  • Writing sonnets can be a form of emotional expression, helping writers explore complex feelings and relationships.
  • Engaging with poetry, including sonnets, has been shown to improve mental health by fostering reflection and emotional processing.
  • The structured format of a sonnet can provide a sense of order and creativity, useful for those seeking to articulate their thoughts.

Origin of 'sonnet'

The word 'sonnet' originated from the Italian word 'sonetto', meaning 'little song' or 'little sound'. The sonnet form was popularized by Italian poet Petrarch in the 14th century and later adopted and modified by English poets like Shakespeare. Sonnets have been a significant poetic form in Western literature for centuries, with variations in structure and themes across different cultures and time periods.

See also: resonance, son, sonant, sonic.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,571, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.