Anapaest

/ˈænəpest/
noun

A metrical foot in poetry that has two short (or unstressed) syllables followed by a long (or stressed) syllable.

The line 'In the blink of an eye' is an example of an anapaest.
Visual representation of "anapaest" - A metrical foot in poetry that has two short (or unstressed) syllables followed by a long (or stressed) syllable

Often appears as...

  • anapaestic tetrameter
  • dactylic anapaest

Usage tips

Poetic

noun

A metrical foot in poetry that has two short (or unstressed) syllables followed by a long (or stressed) syllable.

The line 'In the blink of an eye' is an example of an anapaest.
Visual representation of "anapaest" - A metrical foot in poetry that has two short (or unstressed) syllables followed by a long (or stressed) syllable

Often appears as...

  • anapaestic tetrameter
  • dactylic anapaest

Usage tips

Poetic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "anapaest"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Poetic Rhythm

Anapaest is used to create a specific rhythmic pattern in poetry that mimics a galloping or waltzing motion.

Illustration for Poetic Rhythm
Composing a sonnet? Try using an anapaest to add a lively rhythm.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Speech Emphasis

When reading poetry aloud, emphasize the third syllable in an anapaestic foot to capture the intended beat.

Illustration for Speech Emphasis
The children were jumping so high—'jumping' pronounced with emphasis follows the anapaest pattern.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Literary Effect

Anapaests can impart a playful, lighthearted tone, contrasting more serious meters like iambic pentameter.

Illustration for Literary Effect
The playful fairy flew, each 'flew' pronounced with zest, an example of anapaest's tone.
LampPro Tip 1/3

Poetic Rhythm

Anapaest is used to create a specific rhythmic pattern in poetry that mimics a galloping or waltzing motion.

Illustration for Poetic Rhythm
Composing a sonnet? Try using an anapaest to add a lively rhythm.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Speech Emphasis

When reading poetry aloud, emphasize the third syllable in an anapaestic foot to capture the intended beat.

Illustration for Speech Emphasis
The children were jumping so high—'jumping' pronounced with emphasis follows the anapaest pattern.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Literary Effect

Anapaests can impart a playful, lighthearted tone, contrasting more serious meters like iambic pentameter.

Illustration for Literary Effect
The playful fairy flew, each 'flew' pronounced with zest, an example of anapaest's tone.
LampPro Tip 1/3

Poetic Rhythm

Anapaest is used to create a specific rhythmic pattern in poetry that mimics a galloping or waltzing motion.

Illustration for Poetic Rhythm
Composing a sonnet? Try using an anapaest to add a lively rhythm.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Speech Emphasis

When reading poetry aloud, emphasize the third syllable in an anapaestic foot to capture the intended beat.

Illustration for Speech Emphasis
The children were jumping so high—'jumping' pronounced with emphasis follows the anapaest pattern.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Literary Effect

Anapaests can impart a playful, lighthearted tone, contrasting more serious meters like iambic pentameter.

Illustration for Literary Effect
The playful fairy flew, each 'flew' pronounced with zest, an example of anapaest's tone.
Visual representation of the word "Anapaest"

Never forget "Anapaest"

Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google PlayGet it from MicrosoftGet it on AppGallery
Chrome

WordUp Chrome Extension

As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.

Get Chrome Extension
Back to top