How Do You Spell CLERIHEW?

Pronunciation: [klˈɛɹɪhjˌuː] (IPA)

The word "clerihew" is spelled as "klɛrɪhjuː". The word originated from the name of its inventor, Edmund Clerihew Bentley, who created humorous poems that follow a specific rhyming pattern. The spelling of the word may seem complicated, but it follows common patterns in English pronunciation. The "c" at the beginning is pronounced as /k/, while the "ie" is pronounced as /ɛ/. The stress falls on the second syllable, making it "RI-hu." With practice, the spelling and pronunciation of "clerihew" can be easily mastered.

CLERIHEW Meaning and Definition

1. A clerihew is a witty and light-hearted form of poetry that consists of a four-line stanza. This poetic form was invented by English writer Edmund Clerihew Bentley in the early 20th century. Clerihews are characterized by their humorous and often nonsensical content, as well as their irregular rhyme scheme.

   The structure of a clerihew typically follows an AABB rhyme scheme, where the first and second lines rhyme with each other, and the third and fourth lines rhyme with each other. The first line of a clerihew usually introduces a well-known person, such as a historical figure, politician, or celebrity. The subsequent lines then playfully and often satirically comment on or describe this person.

   Clerihews are known for their brevity and simplicity. They do not require a specific meter or rhythm, allowing poets to freely experiment with their composition. This form of poetry encourages creativity and lightheartedness, making it a popular choice for humorous or playful verse.

   Clerihews often utilize puns, double entendres, or clever wordplay to generate laughter or surprise in the reader. While they may not have a deep or profound meaning, clerihews serve as a form of entertainment and offer a brief respite from more serious or traditional poetry.

Common Misspellings for CLERIHEW

• xlerihew
• vlerihew
• flerihew
• dlerihew
• ckerihew
• cperihew
• coerihew
• clwrihew
• clsrihew
• cldrihew
• clrrihew
• cl4rihew
• cl3rihew
• cleeihew
• cledihew
• clefihew
• cletihew
• cle5ihew
• cle4ihew

Etymology of CLERIHEW

The word "clerihew" was coined by the English author Edmund Clerihew Bentley. The term originated in the early 20th century, specifically in 1905 when Bentley was in school. He used the word to name a humorous poetic form he created.

The etymology of the word itself is not particularly complex. It is a blend of the author's last name, "Clerihew", and "hew" which means to shape or form. Thus, the word "clerihew" literally means "shaped or formed by Clerihew". The term was coined since Edmund Clerihew Bentley was the one who originated and popularized the specific poetic structure.

Similar spelling words for CLERIHEW

• Clare,
• cloer,
• clore,
• clower.

Plural form of CLERIHEW is CLERIHEWS