short metre
Noun (also spelled short meter): A specific poetic meter, primarily used in hymns, consisting of stanzas of four lines where the first, second, and fourth lines have six syllables each, and the third line has eight syllables. The rhyme scheme is typically abab or abcb.
- (The poem follows the 6-6-8-6 syllable pattern.)
- (This meter is common in religious poetry.)
"Short metre" as a technical term: In prosody (the study of verse), "short metre" is often abbreviated as S.M. in hymnbooks and poetry references.
- The hymnal indicated "S.M." for the tune, meaning it was set to short metre. (The abbreviation directs the singer to use the 6-6-8-6 pattern.)
Comparison with other meters: "Short metre" is one of several standard hymn meters, alongside common metre (8-6-8-6) and long metre (8-8-8-8).
- While common metre feels more balanced, short metre creates a more compact, urgent rhythm. (The shorter lines in the first two positions give a distinct feel.)
Short meter (n): An alternative spelling of "short metre," especially in American English.
- The poem is written in short meter, with a 6-6-8-6 syllable count. (Same meaning as "short metre.")
Metre (n): The basic rhythmic structure of a verse or lines in verse.
- The poet chose a simple metre to suit the hymn's theme. (The pattern of stressed and unstressed syllables.)
- Six-six-eight-six meter: A descriptive name based on the syllable count per line.
- Hymn metre: A general term for any fixed syllable pattern used in hymns, though "short metre" is a specific subtype.
"In short metre": Used to describe a poem or hymn composed with this specific pattern.
- The congregation sang the psalm in short metre, following the tune. (They used the 6-6-8-6 rhythm.)
"Short metre hymn": A hymn whose text is written in this meter.
- The choir performed a short metre hymn from the 18th century. (A hymn with the 6-6-8-6 pattern.)