Dibrach, a term used in poetry to describe two short syllables pronounced as one beat, is spelled /ˈdaɪ.bræk/. The first syllable is pronounced as /daɪ/ and rhymes with "eye". The second syllable is pronounced as /bræk/ and rhymes with "back". This word is often used in scanning poetry to determine the rhythm and meter of a line. Understanding the correct spelling and pronunciation of technical terms like dibrach is essential for those studying and analyzing poetry.
A dibrach is a term used in poetry and prosody to describe a metrical foot consisting of two short syllables. It is also known as a pyrrhic. In Greek and Latin poetry, it is denoted by the symbol '⏑⏑' or '˘ ˘'.
The dibrach is considered one of the simplest metrical feet, characterized by its shortness and lack of stress. It is the opposite of a spondee, which consists of two long or stressed syllables. In classical poetry, the dibrach is rarely used in isolation but often appears in combination with other feet to create various metrical patterns.
The dibrach's brevity and lightness allow it to play a significant role in creating rhythm and pace in a poem or verse. It often contributes to a sense of quickness or rapidity, adding a lyrical quality to the verse. It frequently occurs in English poetry as part of a larger metrical structure, such as an iambic or trochaic meter, where it contributes to the overall musicality and flow of the verse.
Overall, the dibrach is a metrical foot consisting of two short syllables that plays a crucial role in creating rhythm, pace, and melodic qualities in poetry. Its brevity allows for versatility in combining with other feet to create various metrical patterns, making it an essential element of poetic composition.
The word "dibrach" originates from the Greek word "δίβραχυς" (divrachys), which consists of two components: "δί" (di), meaning "two", and "βραχύς" (vrachys), meaning "short". Combining these, "δίβραχυς" (divrachys) refers to a metrical foot in poetry consisting of two short syllables. Over time, this Greek term was anglicized to "dibrach".