tiercet
Definition
- Noun:
- A three-line stanza: "tiercet" refers to a group of three lines of verse, often forming a stanza or a unit within a poem.
- A musical triplet: In music, "tiercet" denotes a group of three notes played in the time normally taken by two notes of the same value, also known as a triplet.
Usage Examples
Poetry:
- The poet used a tiercet to conclude each section of the sonnet. (A three-line stanza was employed to finish each part.)
- In terza rima, each tiercet rhymes with the next one. (Every three-line unit in that form has a specific rhyme scheme.)
Music:
- The pianist played the tiercet with precise timing. (The three-note group was performed accurately.)
- A tiercet in a waltz adds rhythmic variety. (A triplet in that dance piece creates a different feel.)
Advanced Usage
"tiercet rhyme scheme": a specific pattern of rhymes within a three-line stanza.
- The tiercet in the poem followed an ABA rhyme scheme. (The three lines had the first and third lines rhyming with each other.)
"musical tiercet": in composition, a triplet used for expressive effect.
- The composer wrote a tiercet to create a sense of urgency. (A triplet was inserted to speed up the rhythm.)
Variants and Related Words
Tercet (n): an alternative spelling of "tiercet," more commonly used in English poetry.
- He wrote a tercet about the autumn leaves. (A three-line stanza on that subject.)
Triplet (n): a set of three lines in poetry or three notes in music.
- The song features a triplet in the chorus. (A three-note group appears in that section.)
Synonyms
- Three-line stanza: a group of three lines forming a poetic unit.
- Triplet: a set of three, especially in verse or music.
Related Idioms
In a tiercet: as a group of three lines or notes.
- The poet expressed the idea in a single tiercet. (The concept was contained within three lines.)
Play a tiercet: to perform a triplet in music.
- The violinist had to play a tiercet smoothly. (The triplet needed to be executed fluidly.)