Anapaest

Pro Tip 1/3

Poetic Rhythm

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

Composing a sonnet? Try using an anapaest to add a lively rhythm.

Pro Tip 2/3

Speech Emphasis

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

The children were jumping so high—'jumping' pronounced with emphasis follows the anapaest pattern.

Pro Tip 3/3

Literary Effect

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

The playful fairy flew, each 'flew' pronounced with zest, an example of anapaest's tone.