Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
anapest
Noun
/ˈænəˌpɛst/
Definition
A metrical foot in poetry consisting of two short or unstressed syllables followed by one long or stressed syllable.
Examples
- “The Assyrian came down like the wolf on the fold, / And his cohorts were gleaming in purple and gold.”
- “Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house, / Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.”
Meaning
An anapest is commonly used in poetry to create a rhythm that flows smoothly and has a lively or cheerful sound.
Synonyms
- anapestic foot
- rhythmic foot
- metrical foot
