Alcaic meaning

The meaning of Alcaic can be described as a type of verse characterized by its metrical form and structure.


Alcaic definitions

Word backwards ciaclA
Part of speech Adjective
Syllabic division Al-ca-ic
Plural The plural of the word "Alcaic" is "Alcaics".
Total letters 6
Vogais (3) a,a,i
Consonants (3) a,l,c

The Alcaic is a classical form of poetic verse named after the Greek poet Alcaeus of Mytilene. It originated in ancient Greece and is known for its specific metrical pattern and structure. The Alcaic stanza typically consists of four lines with a specific rhyme scheme and syllable count.

History of the Alcaic Verse

Alcaeus, the poet the form is named after, was famous for his lyrical poetry and political themes. He was a contemporary of Sappho and is often credited with the invention of the Alcaic verse. The form gained popularity and was later used by other poets such as Horace and the Roman poet Catullus.

Structure of the Alcaic Stanza

The Alcaic stanza is known for its metrical precision and specific rhyme scheme. It consists of four lines, with the first two lines written in hendecasyllabic meter (consisting of eleven syllables) and the third line in dactylic hexameter (usually consisting of six feet). The fourth line is a shorter line with five feet.

Usage in Poetry

Despite its ancient origins, the Alcaic verse continues to be used by poets today. It offers a beautiful and structured form for expressing lyrical or thematic ideas. The strict metrical pattern of the Alcaic stanza challenges poets to craft their words carefully, making it a popular choice for those seeking to hone their craft.

Overall, the Alcaic stanza is a timeless form of poetic verse that has stood the test of time. Its structured elegance and specific metrical requirements make it a challenging yet rewarding form for poets to work with, allowing them to create beautiful and memorable pieces of poetry.


Alcaic Examples

  1. The poet used the Alcaic meter in his sonnet to convey a sense of grandeur.
  2. Students analyzed the ancient Alcaic odes in their literature class.
  3. The Alcaic stanza consists of four lines with a strict rhyme scheme.
  4. She wrote a beautiful Alcaic poem inspired by nature.
  5. The playwright employed the Alcaic meter to create a sense of rhythm in the play.
  6. His favorite poem was written in the Alcaic style by a famous Greek poet.
  7. The Alcaic form of verse originated in ancient Greece.
  8. The poetess crafted an Alcaic ode in honor of her homeland.
  9. The Alcaic meter lends a sense of solemnity to the poem.
  10. Scholars debated the significance of the Alcaic stanza in the context of Roman literature.


Most accessed

Search the alphabet

  • #
  • Aa
  • Bb
  • Cc
  • Dd
  • Ee
  • Ff
  • Gg
  • Hh
  • Ii
  • Jj
  • Kk
  • Ll
  • Mm
  • Nn
  • Oo
  • Pp
  • Qq
  • Rr
  • Ss
  • Tt
  • Uu
  • Vv
  • Ww
  • Xx
  • Yy
  • Zz
  • Updated 22/04/2024 - 21:54:16