Definition

A part of the body like a finger or toe, or a type of rhythm in poetry with a strong beat followed by two weaker beats.

Example

In poetry, a dactyl can create a lively rhythm that enhances the reading experience.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a dactyl in poetry?

Yeah, it's that rhythm with one stressed syllable followed by two unstressed ones, right?

Exactly! It's used in some famous poems to create a unique flow.

I love how it can change the feel of a line so much!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Dactyl → It is derived from the Greek word "daktylos" (δάκτυλος), meaning finger. In poetry, a dactyl is a metrical foot consisting of one stressed syllable followed by two unstressed syllables, resembling the way a finger taps rhythmically.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'finger' ('daktylos') tapping out a rhythm — that's how a dactyl in poetry works, with one strong beat followed by two lighter ones.

Visually Confused Words