PENTAMETER Meaning and
Definition
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Pentameter, derived from the Greek words "penta" meaning "five" and "metron" meaning "measure," refers to a metrical pattern in poetry that consists of five (penta) feet. A foot represents the basic unit of meter in poetry, consisting of a combination of stressed and unstressed syllables. In pentameter, each line is composed of five feet, resulting in a total of ten syllables.
Traditionally, English poetry and verse are often composed in iambic pentameter, where each foot consists of an unstressed syllable followed by a stressed syllable. This rhythm is believed to mimic the natural flow and cadence of speech, making it the most common metrical pattern in English verse. Examples of iambic pentameter can be found in the works of renowned poets like William Shakespeare, John Milton, and Alexander Pope.
Pentameter provides structure and rhythm to poetry, allowing poets to craft verses with a specific beat and flow. It helps establish a musicality and harmony within the lines and aids in conveying emotions and messages effectively. The consistent pattern of pentameter allows poets to create a sense of balance and symmetry, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the poem.
Understanding and utilizing pentameter is fundamental for poets and readers alike, as it offers insight into the technical and rhythmic aspects of poetry. By mastering the art of pentameter, poets can explore various poetic forms and experiment with different patterns, further enriching their compositions.
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• Having five metrical feet.
• In anc. poetry, a verse of five feet.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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Etymology of PENTAMETER
The word "pentameter" comes from combining two roots: "penta", meaning "five", and "meter", meaning "measure" or "meter" in poetry.
"Penta" comes from the Greek word "pente", which also means "five". It is derived from the Indo-European root "penkwe", meaning "five" or "hand", as the ancient Greeks used fingers to count.
The second part, "meter", is derived from the Greek word "metron", meaning "measure" or "meter". It refers to the rhythmic and metrical patterns in poetry, indicating the number of syllables or stresses per line.
Similar spelling words for PENTAMETER
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