Metrical Unit (Noun)
Meaning
(prosody) a group of 2 or 3 syllables forming the basic unit of poetic rhythm.
Classification
Nouns denoting communicative processes and contents.
Examples
- A single metrical unit consists of one unstressed syllable followed by one stressed syllable in an iambic rhythm.
- In most types of meter, the metrical unit is composed of a combination of unstressed and stressed syllables that recur in a pattern.
- Each metrical unit is composed of one foot and together the metrical units make up a line of verse.
- In traditional prosody, a metrical unit usually contains two or three syllables that work together to form the basic rhythmic unit.
- Poets carefully craft their language into specific metrical units that are combined in particular patterns to create unique poetic effects.