Amphimacer meaning

An amphimacer is a metrical foot consisting of a stressed syllable followed by two unstressed syllables.


Amphimacer definitions

Word backwards recamihpma
Part of speech Noun
Syllabic division am-phi-ma-cer
Plural The plural of the word "amphimacer" is "amphimacers."
Total letters 10
Vogais (3) a,i,e
Consonants (5) m,p,h,c,r

The amphimacer is a metrical foot used in poetry and is characterized by having three syllables with the middle one being stressed. This pattern creates a unique rhythm in a poem, adding variety and interest to the overall flow of the verse.

Origin and Function

The term "amphimacer" is derived from the Greek word "amphimakros," meaning "surrounding a long syllable." It is also known as a cretic or a molossus. Amphimacers are commonly used in classical verse forms such as Latin and Greek poetry, but they can also be found in English poetry.

Examples in Literature

One famous example of an amphimacer can be seen in Edgar Allan Poe's poem "The Raven," where the first line reads, "Once upon a midnight dreary." The stress falls on the second syllable of each word, creating an amphimaceric pattern.

Amphimacers can also be found in songs, speeches, and other forms of literature. Their use adds a musical quality to the text and can draw attention to specific words or phrases.

Importance in Poetry

Amphimacers play a crucial role in the rhythm and meter of a poem. By breaking up the regular pattern of stressed and unstressed syllables, they create a dynamic and engaging reading experience for the audience. Poets often use amphimacers strategically to add emphasis or convey a certain mood or tone.

Amphimacers are just one of many metrical feet that poets use to craft their work. By understanding the different types of metrical feet and how they function, readers can appreciate the artistry and skill that goes into creating a poem.


Amphimacer Examples

  1. The amphimacer foot is a metrical foot consisting of two short syllables surrounding one long syllable.
  2. In the word "chocolate," the syllables "lat" create an amphimacer pattern.
  3. Some examples of words with an amphimacer rhythm include "banana" and "almond."
  4. The line "To the fairies let us hie" contains an example of an amphimacer in poetry.
  5. The song lyric "On the top of spaghetti" features an amphimacer structure.
  6. When reciting a limerick, the third line often contains an amphimacer.
  7. Poets may use an amphimacer to create a specific rhythm or add emphasis to certain words.
  8. Some English words naturally have an amphimacer pattern due to their syllable stress.
  9. It can be challenging to find examples of amphimacers in everyday speech.
  10. Students of poetry may study amphimacers as part of learning about metrical feet.


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  • Updated 04/05/2024 - 00:11:17