How Do You Spell IAMBIC?

Pronunciation: [ˈi͡əmbɪk] (IPA)

The term "iambic," used to describe a specific type of poetic rhythm, is spelled with five letters: i-a-m-b-i-c. In IPA phonetic transcription, "i" is pronounced as the short "i" sound, "æ" represents the "a" sound as in "cat," "m" is the usual "m" sound, "b" is the "b" sound, "ɪ" represents the short "i" sound again, and "k" is the regular "k" sound. The word describes a metrical feet that consists of two syllables, the first syllable is unstressed and the second syllable is stressed.

IAMBIC Meaning and Definition

  1. Iambic is an adjective used to describe a specific rhythmic pattern in poetry and spoken language. It refers to a metrical structure consisting of one unstressed syllable followed by one stressed syllable, forming what is known as an iamb or "foot." This particular metrical foot is often represented by the symbol "˘ -", where the " ˘ " represents the unstressed syllable, and the " - " represents the stressed syllable.

    In poetic terms, iambic meter is commonly used in English verse. It provides a consistent rhythmic pattern that resembles the natural stress and flow of everyday speech. This pattern is particularly evident in works of poetry and dramatic speeches, where it helps to create a musical quality and emotional resonance.

    The iambic structure allows poets to control the speed, emphasis, and overall tone of their work. By using a regular alternation of stressed and unstressed syllables, poets can create a sense of harmony and balance, while also emphasizing specific words or ideas. This metrical pattern has been utilized by countless poets throughout history, from William Shakespeare to William Wordsworth, and continues to be employed in many contemporary poetic compositions.

    Overall, "iambic" refers to the rhythmic pattern in which an unstressed syllable is followed by a stressed syllable, and its consistent use in creating a distinct meter is a fundamental aspect of many poetic compositions, adding depth and musicality to the language.

  2. • Pert. to.
    • A poetic foot of two syllables, the first short, the second long or accented.

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

Common Misspellings for IAMBIC

Etymology of IAMBIC

The word "iambic" comes from the Greek word "iambos", which refers to a specific metrical foot used in poetry. The term was first used by the Greek poet Archilochus in the 7th century BCE to describe a specific rhythmic pattern in which a short syllable is followed by a long one. The term "iambic" was later adopted by the Romans and subsequently passed into English as a descriptor for a metrical pattern composed of iambs, i.e., one short syllable followed by one long syllable.

Similar spelling word for IAMBIC

Plural form of IAMBIC is IAMBICS

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