Definition

Not having the qualities or characteristics of poetry; lacking in beauty or expressiveness.

Example

The speech was so unpoetic that it failed to inspire the audience.

Conversation

I just read that poem you wrote, and I think it's great!

Thanks! But I feel like some parts are a bit unpoetic.

Really? I thought it had a nice flow to it.

It does, but I still wish I could make the unpoetic parts more vivid.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Unpoetic → It is formed from "un-" (meaning not) and "poetic" (from Greek "poetikos", meaning relating to poetry). The word "unpoetic" means not relating to or characteristic of poetry.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('un-') being added to something 'relating to poetry' ('poetic') — that's why unpoetic means not poetic.

Visually Confused Words