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mora

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˈmɔːrə/

KK: /mɔːrə/

noun
Definition

A basic unit of time in poetry that represents the duration of a short syllable.


Example

In classical poetry, each mora is crucial for maintaining the rhythm of the verse.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever heard of a mora in poetry?
Sloth B
Yeah, I think it refers to a unit of time, right?
Sloth A
Exactly! It's like the smallest part of the rhythm.
Sloth B
That's interesting — I never knew poetry had such precise measurements!

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
syllable
beat
unit
Antonyms
pause
silence
break
Root Explanation

The word 'mora' originates from Latin 'mora', meaning delay or pause. It refers to a period of waiting or a hindrance in progress.

Memory Tip

Think of 'mora' as a moment of 'delay' — it helps you remember that it signifies a pause or hindrance.

Visually Confused Words
mowra
morga
moira
ora
mor
remora
mowrah
morula
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