Iambus

/aɪˈæmbəs/
noun

In poetry, a unit or measure of rhythm that consists of a short syllable followed by a long one.

The meter of traditional English poetic forms depends upon a hierarchy of rhythms, based upon syllable-stress patterns, which are labeled iambus, trochee, spondee, anapaest, and dactyl. The rhymes of iambic pentameter, for example, can lend elegiac tones to even the most modern verses.
Visual representation of "iambus" - In poetry, a unit or measure of rhythm that consists of a short syllable followed by a long one.

Often appears as...

  • iambic pentameter
  • iambic verse

Usage tips

Poetic

noun

In poetry, a unit or measure of rhythm that consists of a short syllable followed by a long one.

The meter of traditional English poetic forms depends upon a hierarchy of rhythms, based upon syllable-stress patterns, which are labeled iambus, trochee, spondee, anapaest, and dactyl. The rhymes of iambic pentameter, for example, can lend elegiac tones to even the most modern verses.
Visual representation of "iambus" - In poetry, a unit or measure of rhythm that consists of a short syllable followed by a long one.

Often appears as...

  • iambic pentameter
  • iambic verse

Usage tips

Poetic

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

Metrical Pattern

Understanding 'iambus' is key for analyzing the rhythm and flow in English poetry.

Illustration for Metrical Pattern
To grasp Shakespeare's rhythm, notice the iambus in 'Shall I compare thee to a summer's day?'
LampPro Tip 2/3

Poetry Emphasis

'Iambus' creates a pattern where every second syllable is emphasized, giving poems a specific beat.

Illustration for Poetry Emphasis
Her voice was soft, the iambus clear, with beats that danced upon the ear.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Not Always Perfect

Poets may not always strictly follow the iambus pattern; slight variations can create unique rhythms.

Illustration for Not Always Perfect
While mostly iambic, the line 'And the sound of a voice that is still' breaks pattern.
LampPro Tip 1/3

Metrical Pattern

Understanding 'iambus' is key for analyzing the rhythm and flow in English poetry.

Illustration for Metrical Pattern
To grasp Shakespeare's rhythm, notice the iambus in 'Shall I compare thee to a summer's day?'
LampPro Tip 2/3

Poetry Emphasis

'Iambus' creates a pattern where every second syllable is emphasized, giving poems a specific beat.

Illustration for Poetry Emphasis
Her voice was soft, the iambus clear, with beats that danced upon the ear.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Not Always Perfect

Poets may not always strictly follow the iambus pattern; slight variations can create unique rhythms.

Illustration for Not Always Perfect
While mostly iambic, the line 'And the sound of a voice that is still' breaks pattern.
LampPro Tip 1/3

Metrical Pattern

Understanding 'iambus' is key for analyzing the rhythm and flow in English poetry.

Illustration for Metrical Pattern
To grasp Shakespeare's rhythm, notice the iambus in 'Shall I compare thee to a summer's day?'
LampPro Tip 2/3

Poetry Emphasis

'Iambus' creates a pattern where every second syllable is emphasized, giving poems a specific beat.

Illustration for Poetry Emphasis
Her voice was soft, the iambus clear, with beats that danced upon the ear.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Not Always Perfect

Poets may not always strictly follow the iambus pattern; slight variations can create unique rhythms.

Illustration for Not Always Perfect
While mostly iambic, the line 'And the sound of a voice that is still' breaks pattern.
Visual representation of the word "Iambus"

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