DACTYLIC Meaning and
Definition
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Dactylic is an adjective used to describe a specific metrical pattern in poetry, particularly in verse and rhythm. It refers to a type of foot, or unit of measure, in poetic meter that typically consists of three syllables, with the stress falling on the first syllable and the next two syllables being unstressed. This creates a pattern of "long-short-short" (— ∪ ∪) in terms of syllabic stress.
The term "dactylic" originates from the Greek word "daktylos," meaning "finger," as the arrangement of stressed and unstressed syllables in a dactylic foot may resemble the three joints of a finger. This rhythmic pattern is commonly found in ancient Greek and Latin poetry, especially epics and elegies, with Homer's Iliad and Odyssey being prominent examples.
Due to its rhythmic quality and distinctive pattern, the dactylic meter is frequently used to convey strong emotions or create intense, energetic, and memorable verses. It is also employed to evoke a sense of movement, as the alternating stressed and unstressed syllables mimic the pattern of walking or marching.
In summary, "dactylic" pertains to a metrical pattern involving three syllables, with the stress falling on the first syllable and the next two syllables being unstressed. It is commonly used in poetry to create a rhythmic and energetic flow of verse, particularly in ancient Greek and Latin literature.
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Relating to or consisting of dactyls.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for DACTYLIC
Etymology of DACTYLIC
The word "dactylic" is derived from the Greek word "daktylos", which means "finger". This term was used in Ancient Greek poetry to describe a metrical foot called a dactyl, which consists of one stressed syllable followed by two unstressed syllables. The word "dactyl" was chosen because the pattern of syllables in this metrical foot imitates the structure of a finger, where the finger's first phalanx is long (the stressed syllable) and the subsequent two phalanges are shorter (the unstressed syllables). Thus, "dactylic" is used to describe anything related to or resembling the dactyl metrical foot.
Similar spelling words for DACTYLIC
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