doggerel
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈdɒɡərəl/
KK: /ˈdɔɡərəl/
adjective
Definition
Describing poetry or writing that is poorly constructed, often humorous or trivial in nature.
Example
The comedian's performance included some doggerel that made the audience laugh.
Conversation
Did you read that poem I sent you?
Yeah, it was a bit doggerel, wasn’t it?
I thought it was funny, but I see what you mean.
Exactly! It had its charm, even if it was a bit silly.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
trivial
comic
burlesque
Antonyms
serious
elevated
sophisticated
noun
Definition
A type of poetry that is poorly written or has a simple, rough style, often meant to be funny or silly.
Example
The comedian recited some doggerel that made the audience laugh.
Conversation
Have you ever read any funny doggerel poetry?
Not really, but I’ve heard it can be pretty entertaining.
Yeah, I found some online that made me laugh out loud.
Root Explanation
Doggerel originates from the term 'doggerel' (from Middle English *doggerel*, meaning a kind of light, irregular verse). The word is often used to describe poetry that is poorly written or trivial. It reflects a style that is not serious or of high quality.
Memory Tip
Think of 'doggerel' as a type of poetry that is light and often not taken seriously, which helps you remember that it refers to trivial or poorly written verse.
Visually Confused Words
hoggerel