Definition

1. Adjective:

   • Relating to or consisting of iambs: Describes a metrical foot in poetry that follows the pattern of an unstressed syllable followed by a stressed syllable.
   • Written in iambs: Pertaining to verse or poetry that uses this metrical pattern.

2. Noun:

   • A line of verse consisting of iambs: A single metrical line written in iambic meter.
   • Iambic verse: Poetry composed in iambic meter.

Examples of Usage

• Adjective:
  • The poet used a strict iambic rhythm throughout the sonnet.
  • Shakespeare's plays are famous for their iambic pentameter.
• Noun:
  • This iambic is from a famous epic poem. (Referring to a specific line)
  • The entire poem is written in iambic. (Referring to the metrical form)

Advanced Usage

• "iambic pentameter": A specific and very common line in English verse consisting of five iambic feet.
  • Much of English Renaissance drama is composed in iambic pentameter.
• "iambic tetrameter": A line consisting of four iambic feet.
  • The ballad often uses iambic tetrameter alternating with trimeter.

Variants and Related Words

• Iamb (n): The metrical foot itself, consisting of one unstressed syllable followed by one stressed syllable (e.g., a, de).
• Iambus (n): An alternative, less common term for an iamb.

Synonyms

• Metrical: Pertaining to poetic meter (a broader term).
• Rhythmic: Having a regular, measured beat.

Related Phrases and Terms

• Common meter: A hymn stanza pattern that often incorporates iambic tetrameter and trimeter.
• Blank verse: Unrhymed verse, typically in iambic pentameter.

Adjective

1. of or consisting of iambs
   • iambic pentameter

Noun

1. a verse line consisting of iambs