1 poetry | Definition of poetry

poetry

noun
po·​et·​ry | \ ˈpō-ə-trē How to pronounce poetry (audio) , -i-trē also ˈpȯ(-)i-trē\

Definition of poetry

1a : metrical writing : verse
b : the productions of a poet : poems
2 : writing that formulates a concentrated imaginative awareness of experience in language chosen and arranged to create a specific emotional response through meaning, sound, and rhythm
3a : something likened to poetry especially in beauty of expression
b : poetic quality or aspect the poetry of dance

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Synonyms & Antonyms for poetry

Synonyms

minstrelsy, poesy, song, verse

Antonyms

prose

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Examples of poetry in a Sentence

I read the poem in a collection of modern poetry. She's published two books of lyric poetry and a novel. He found it easiest to express himself in the language of poetry. Her dancing is pure poetry.
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Recent Examples on the Web

Definitely, some of the artistry and poetry has been lost in modern chess. Peter Nicholas, The Atlantic, "The End of the Golden Era of Chess," 5 Sep. 2019 The festival, directed by violin professor Sibbi Bernhardsson, will concentrate on music but also consider how the concept applies in visual art and poetry. Zachary Lewis, cleveland.com, "Late work gets top billing at Oberlin’s ‘End of Life, End of Time’ festival," 4 Sep. 2019 In prose and poetry, the British-Indian social media star reflects on the proto-feminist role models offered by the heroines and villains of Greek mythology. New York Times, "New & Noteworthy, From Black Utopias to a ‘Little Women’ Tribute," 27 Aug. 2019 This month Ms Anena recited those lines on the stage of the National Theatre in Kampala, melding drums, dance and poetry in an arresting evocation of love and war. L.t. | Kampala, The Economist, "The writers breathing fresh life into Ugandan literature," 23 Aug. 2019 This celebration of all women is an open platform to express truths, everyday struggles and victories through the art of slam poetry. Gege Reed, The Courier-Journal, "Louisville concerts this week: Lauren Daigle, Waterfront Wednesday & more," 23 Aug. 2019 Edwards will speak at the morning service, which will include prayers and readings across many faiths, hymns and poetry. Washington Post, "Memorials begin for former Louisiana Gov. Kathleen Blanco," 22 Aug. 2019 George will also be developing his language skills through poetry reciting, telling stories and reading aloud to a group. Erin Hill, PEOPLE.com, "All About Prince George’s Upcoming School Curriculum (It Reads Like a College Graduate Program!)," 21 Aug. 2019 The event, organized by Baraka, featured poetry by San Diego native Greg McKnight, art and speeches from several local activists including Armand King and Eddie Price. San Diego Union-Tribune, "San Diego and Chicago-based community activists discuss state of black America," 18 Aug. 2019

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'poetry.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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First Known Use of poetry

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

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More Definitions for poetry

poetry

noun

English Language Learners Definition of poetry

: the writings of a poet : poems
: something that is very beautiful or graceful

poetry

noun
po·​et·​ry | \ ˈpō-ə-trē How to pronounce poetry (audio) \

Kids Definition of poetry

1 : writing that usually involves figurative language and lines that have rhythm and sometimes rhyme : verse
2 : the writings of a poet

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