Definition

A unit of rhythm in poetry that has one unstressed syllable followed by one stressed syllable.

Example

In the poem, each line is written in iambic meter, creating a musical quality.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of an iamb?

Yeah, it's that poetic foot, right?

Exactly! It’s interesting how it creates rhythm.

I know! It really adds a nice flow to the verses.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Iamb → The word 'iamb' comes from the Greek 'iambos' (ἴαμβος), which refers to a metrical foot consisting of an unstressed syllable followed by a stressed syllable. It is a fundamental unit in poetry, particularly in the context of iambic meter.

Memory Tip

Think of the Greek 'iambos' as a way to remember that an iamb is a poetic foot with an unstressed syllable followed by a stressed one, creating a rhythmic pattern.

Visually Confused Words