Definition

A type of poetic rhythm that has one strong syllable between two weak syllables, creating a pattern in the way words are stressed.

Example

In the poem, the use of an amphibrach adds a musical quality to the lines.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of an amphibrach?

Yeah, I learned about it in my poetry class last week.

It's interesting how it fits into different types of verse.

Definitely! Those patterns really change the rhythm of a poem.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Amphibrach is formed from "amphi-" (meaning on both sides or around) and "brachys" (meaning short). The term refers to a metrical foot in poetry that has a short syllable between two long syllables, creating a rhythm that can be perceived as being 'on both sides' of the short syllable.

Memory Tip

Think of 'amphi-' meaning 'on both sides' and 'brachys' meaning 'short' — this helps you remember that an amphibrach is a poetic foot with a short syllable flanked by longer ones.

Visually Confused Words