Rhythm and sound

English

Definition

The musical qualities of language created through patterns of stressed and unstressed syllables (rhythm) and the repetition or arrangement of sounds. In poetry, rhythm and sound devices like rhyme, alliteration, and onomatopoeia create mood and reinforce meaning.

Examples

  • Iambic pentameter in Shakespeare: da-DUM da-DUM da-DUM da-DUM da-DUM
  • Onomatopoeia: "buzz," "crash," "sizzle" — words that sound like what they describe
  • Internal rhyme: "Once upon a midnight dreary, while I pondered, weak and weary" (Poe)

Related Terms

Poetic devices Poetic form and structure Poetic terms Literary devices

Study This Concept

Practice rhythm and sound with free review games in these units:

Creative Writing Unit 5: Poetry and Verse