The word "hypermetric" is spelled with the prefix "hyper" which means "over" or "above" and the root "metric" which refers to measurement. Therefore, "hypermetric" refers to a measurement that is above the normal or expected range. Its IPA phonetic transcription is [haɪpərˈmɛtrɪk], where the stress is on the second syllable. The pronunciation of the two vowels "e" and "i" in "metric" and "hypermetric" sound almost the same, with a short "e" sound like "eh".
Hypermetric is an adjective that describes a type of metrical pattern in poetry or music where the line or phrase has more syllables or beats than the established metrical pattern requires. This deviation from the expected meter creates a sense of emphasis or tension in the rhythm, often lending a feeling of urgency or heightened emotion to the overall composition.
In poetry, hypermetric lines have extra unstressed or stressed syllables, going beyond the traditional established pattern. This irregularity can result from the use of elongated words, repetitions, or added descriptive phrases. By disrupting the regularity of the meter, hypermetric lines draw attention to themselves and can convey a sense of emphasis, power, or urgency. They can also be used strategically to create a sense of surprise or contrast within a poem.
In music, hypermetric phrases go beyond the expected number of beats per measure. This irregularity can occur when an extra beat or beats are added to a measure or when a phrase extends beyond the anticipated rhythmic pattern. Hypermetric passages can create a sense of tension or anticipation, disrupting the listener's expectations. This technique is often used to build emotional intensity or highlight certain musical ideas within a composition.
Overall, hypermetric refers to the intentional deviation from established metrical patterns, whether in poetry or music, to create emphasis, tension, or heightened emotional impact.
The word "hypermetric" is derived from the combination of two root words: "hyper-" and "metric".
The prefix "hyper-" comes from the Greek word "huper", meaning "above" or "beyond". It is commonly used to indicate excess or extreme behavior.
The root word "metric" comes from the Latin word "metrum", which means "measure". It is related to the Greek word "metron", which also means "measure" or "meter". In English, "metric" is often used to refer to systems of measurement or quantities.
When these two roots are combined, "hypermetric" is formed. It generally refers to something that exceeds the usual or expected measure or pattern, often used in the context of prosody or poetry to describe a line that contains more syllables than the standard meter of the given poetic form.