Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Characteristic of or befitting poetry: Having the qualities, style, or elevated language typical of poetry.
   • Of or relating to poetry: Pertaining to the art, form, or composition of poems.

Usage

• The word "poetical" is used to describe language, works, or expressions that possess the imaginative, rhythmic, or aesthetic qualities associated with poetry. It is often used interchangeably with "poetic," though "poetic" is more common in modern usage.

Examples

• Adjective:
  • The author's prose is highly poetical, filled with beautiful imagery and metaphor.
  • She has a poetical way of describing even the most ordinary events.
  • The poetical works of the Romantic era emphasized emotion and nature.

Advanced Usage

• "Poetical justice": A literary device where virtue is ultimately rewarded and vice punished, often in a fitting or ironic manner.
  • The villain's downfall was a perfect example of poetical justice.

Variants and Related Words

• Poetic (adj): The more common modern variant, with identical core meanings.
  • He has a poetic soul.
• Poetically (adv): In a poetical manner.
  • She spoke poetically about her childhood.
• Poet (n): A writer of poems.
• Poetry (n): Literary work in which special intensity is given to the expression of feelings and ideas by the use of distinctive style and rhythm.

Synonyms

• Lyrical: Expressing deep personal emotion or observations in a beautiful, song-like manner.
• Metrical: Relating to or composed in poetic meter.
• Imaginative: Having or showing creativity or inventiveness, often used in a literary context.

Antonyms

• Prosaic: Having the style or diction of prose; lacking poetic beauty.
• Literal: Taking words in their usual or most basic sense without metaphor or allegory.
• Mundane: Lacking interest or excitement; dull, and not connected with the artistic qualities of poetry.

Adjective

1. characteristic of or befitting poetry
   • poetic diction
2. of or relating to poetry
   • poetic works
   • a poetic romance