Half-rhyme meaning

Half-rhyme is when words partially rhyme due to their similar ending sounds.


Half-rhyme definitions

Word backwards emyhr-flah
Part of speech The word "half-rhyme" can function as a noun.
Syllabic division half-rhyme: half-rhyme
Plural The plural of the word half-rhyme is half-rhymes.
Total letters 9
Vogais (2) a,e
Consonants (6) h,l,f,r,y,m

Half-rhyme, also known as slant rhyme or near rhyme, is a type of rhyme that is not exact but still similar in sound. It occurs when words have similar, yet not identical, sounds at the end of their syllables. This creates a subtle connection between words without the full rhyme that perfect rhymes have.

Characteristics of Half-Rhyme

Half-rhyme is characterized by words that have consonant sounds in common but different vowel sounds, or vice versa. For example, words like "prove" and "place" or "moon" and "man" have similar sounds but are not exact rhymes. This imperfect matching of sounds creates a softer, more subtle connection between words.

Usage in Poetry

Poets often use half-rhyme to create a more complex and interesting rhyme scheme in their poems. It allows them to play with language in a unique way, providing a different kind of musicality to their work. By using half-rhyme, poets can add depth and nuance to their verses, creating a sense of cohesion and continuity without the strictness of perfect rhyme.

Emotional Impact

The use of half-rhyme can also evoke a specific emotional response from the reader. The subtle similarity in sound can create a sense of tension or ambiguity, adding to the overall mood and tone of the poem. It allows poets to convey complex emotions and ideas more effectively, resonating with the reader on a deeper level.

Overall, half-rhyme is a versatile and powerful tool in poetry, allowing poets to experiment with language and sound in new and creative ways. It adds depth, complexity, and emotional resonance to poems, enhancing the overall impact and meaning of the work.


Half-rhyme Examples

  1. The sun shone brightly on the winding road, its golden rays casting a half-rhyme on the trees.
  2. Her laughter echoed through the forest, a joyful half-rhyme to the chirping of the birds.
  3. The waves crashed against the shore with a rhythmic half-rhyme, soothing and calming.
  4. The distant sound of church bells created a half-rhyme with the patter of rain on the roof.
  5. His footsteps on the gravel pathway created a half-rhyme with the rustling of leaves in the wind.
  6. The gentle hum of the bees in the garden provided a soft half-rhyme to the buzzing of the lawnmower.
  7. The distant whistle of the train formed a half-rhyme with the hooting of an owl in the night.
  8. The crackling of the bonfire provided a comforting half-rhyme to the chirping of crickets.
  9. The distant rumble of thunder created a half-rhyme with the pitter-patter of raindrops on the window pane.
  10. Her voice, soft and gentle, formed a half-rhyme with the rustling of pages as she turned the book.


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  • Updated 12/05/2024 - 22:07:24