End rhymes are the final sounds in lines of poetry that corresponding to one another. The spelling of the phrase "end rhymes" can be explained using IPA phonetic transcription. The first word "end" is transcribed as /ɛnd/ with the vowel sound "e" pronounced as in "bed" and the consonant sounds "d" pronounced as in "dog". The second word "rhymes" is transcribed as /raɪmz/ with the vowels "y" and "i" pronounced as in "pie" and the consonants "m" and "z" pronounced as in "mother" and "zulu" respectively.
End rhymes refer to the occurrence of similar or identical sounds at the end of two or more lines of poetry. It is one of the most commonly recognized types of rhymes in literature and plays a significant role in shaping the structure and musicality of a poem. In the context of poetry, the term "end" refers to the final sound or syllable of a line.
End rhymes are created by utilizing words with shared vowel and consonant sounds at the end of lines. These rhymes help create a sense of rhythm, melody, and cohesion in a poem, as they provide aural unity and establish a pattern or symmetry within the verse. Furthermore, end rhymes often contribute to the overall aesthetic effect and impact of a poem, highlighting the poet's intentional word choices and adding a lyrical quality to the work.
There are different types of end rhymes, including perfect end rhymes (also known as "true" or "exact" rhymes), where both the vowel and consonant sounds match exactly, and imperfect end rhymes (also called "slant" or "near" rhymes), where the sounds are similar but not identical. End rhymes can occur within a single stanza or be used in a repetitive fashion throughout a longer poem, reinforcing thematic elements or creating a sense of continuity.
Overall, end rhymes are fundamental to the art of poetry, as they contribute to the musicality, structure, and meaning of a poem, enhancing its aesthetic appeal and enriching the reader's experience.
The etymology of the word "end rhymes" can be traced back to the Middle English period.
The word "end" originates from the Old English "endian" meaning "to come to a conclusion" or "to finish".
The word "rhyme" has its roots in various languages, but ultimately derives from the Greek word "rhythmós", meaning "measured motion" or "rhythm". It entered the English language through the Old French word "rime", which referred to both the concept of end rhymes and poetic meter.
Over time, "end rhymes" emerged as a compound phrase in English, combining "end" with "rhyme" to refer specifically to the type of rhyme occurring at the end of consecutive lines in poetry or verse.