Iamb
Definition
An iamb is a metrical foot in poetry consisting of two syllables where the first syllable is unstressed and the second syllable is stressed. It creates a rhythmic pattern that resembles natural speech.
Analogy
Imagine walking down the street with your footsteps falling in a regular "da-DUM" pattern. That's how an iamb works in poetry, with the unstressed syllable followed by a stressed one.
Related terms
Trochee: A trochee is another metrical foot in poetry consisting of two syllables where the first syllable is stressed and the second syllable is unstressed. It has the opposite pattern of an iamb.
Spondee: A spondee is a metrical foot in poetry consisting of two stressed syllables. It creates a heavy and emphatic rhythm.
Anapest: An anapest is a metrical foot in poetry consisting of three syllables where the first two are unstressed and the third one is stressed. It has a flowing and light rhythm.
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