Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

caesura

noun

/sɪˈzjʊərə/

Definition

A pause or break in a line of poetry, typically occurring in the middle of a verse.

Examples

In the line ‘To err is human; to forgive, divine,’ the semicolon represents a caesura.
The poet used a caesura to emphasize the contrast between joy and sorrow.
Caesura adds a dramatic pause that invites readers to consider the weight of the words.

Meaning

Caesura is an important element in poetry that creates a rhythmic pause, allowing for a moment of reflection that can enhance the emotional impact of the poem.