How Do You Spell HEXAMETRIC?

Pronunciation: [hˌɛksɐmˈɛtɹɪk] (IPA)

Hexametric is a word that refers to verse in six feet. It is pronounced /hɛksəˈmɛtrɪk/ with stress on the second syllable. The first syllable hɛks is a prefix that means six, while ə is the schwa sound. The second syllable mɛtr is a root word meaning measurement or verse, which ends with ɪk, meaning pertaining to. The spelling of the word follows the Latin prefix, which is hexa- and the Greek root word, which is -metron, resulting in a hybrid word.

HEXAMETRIC Meaning and Definition

1. Hexametric is an adjective that pertains to or describes a specific metrical form commonly found in ancient Greek and Latin poetry. It refers to a verse or line of poetry consisting of six metrical feet, also known as hexameters. Each foot, or unit of measurement, within this metrical structure typically contains either two or three syllables, creating a rhythmic pattern. This particular meter is highly regarded and was frequently employed by ancient poets, such as Homer in his epic works, including the Iliad and Odyssey.

   The hexameter, at its core, is a two-part line with a dactylic rhythm that emphasizes the pattern of long and short syllables. It begins with a dactyl or spondee (a long syllable followed by two short syllables or two long syllables), followed by one or more dactyls, and concludes with a trochee (a long syllable followed by a short syllable). This pattern helps maintain the musicality and flow of the verse.

   Hexametric poetry, known for its disciplined structure, provides a unique and intricate framework for conveying stories, narratives, or profound ideas. Its rhythmic and melodic qualities are renowned for capturing the listener or reader's attention, contributing to the rich oral tradition of the ancient world.

   In contemporary literature, while the use of hexameter is less prevalent, it remains an essential aspect of the scholarly study of classical poetry, ensuring the preservation and analysis of ancient literary works.

2. Consisting of six poetic feet.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for HEXAMETRIC

• gexametric
• bexametric
• nexametric
• jexametric
• uexametric
• yexametric
• hwxametric
• hsxametric
• hdxametric
• hrxametric
• h4xametric
• h3xametric
• hezametric
• hecametric
• hedametric
• hesametric
• hexzmetric
• hexsmetric
• hexwmetric

Etymology of HEXAMETRIC

The word "Hexametric" is derived from the combination of two elements: "hexa-" and "metric".

The prefix "hexa-" comes from the ancient Greek word "hex", meaning "six". This term is used in various contexts to indicate the number six. For instance, the hexagon is a polygon with six sides, and hexameter is a poetic verse with six metrical feet.

The suffix "-metric" is derived from the Greek "metron", which means "measure". In English, it is used to form adjectives relating to measurement or meter. For example, "symmetric" refers to objects or patterns that have balanced proportions, and "geometric" refers to shapes and figures that can be measured or represented by mathematical methods.

So when combined, "hexametric" literally means "measured in sixs" or "having to do with six measures".

Similar spelling word for HEXAMETRIC

• geometric.