Iambic Meaning in English
word
aɪˌæmbɪk
eye-AM-bik
ˈiəmbɪk
EE-um-bik
Definition
Describes a rhythm or meter in poetry where each unit (iamb) has an unstressed syllable followed by a stressed syllable, as in 'da-DUM'. Often found in English poetry, such as iambic pentameter.
Usage & Nuances
Mostly used in academic, literary, or poetic contexts. Commonly appears in phrases like 'iambic pentameter'. Not used in daily conversation except when discussing poetry or literature.
Spanish: yámbicoPortuguese (BR): iâmbicoPortuguese (PT): iâmbicoChinese (Simplified): 抑扬格的Chinese (Traditional): 抑揚格的Hindi: आयम्बिकArabic: إيامبيBengali: আইয়ামবিক - অয়ামিক (কবিতার ছন্দ)Russian: ямбическийJapanese: 弱強（じゃっきょう） - アイアンビックVietnamese: iambic - nhịp iambKorean: 약강격 - 아이암빅Turkish: iambik - kısa-uzun ölçü (şiir)Urdu: ایمبکIndonesian: iambik - berirama iambus
Example Sentences
An iambic foot has two syllables: unstressed and stressed.
basic
Shakespeare often wrote in iambic pentameter.
basic
The poem follows an iambic rhythm.
basic
Most English sonnets use iambic lines for their structure.
natural
It can be tricky to identify an iambic pattern when reading quickly.
natural
Some people practice clapping to get the iambic beat right in poems.
natural