tetrameter

noun

te·​tram·​e·​ter te-ˈtra-mə-tər How to pronounce tetrameter (audio)
: a line of verse consisting either of four dipodies (as in classical iambic, trochaic, and anapestic verse) or four metrical feet (as in modern English verse)

Examples of tetrameter in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web This task — writing a poem about a worm in anapestic tetrameter, a very specific and satisfyingly arcane poetic meter — is a challenging one, but ChatGPT was the clear winner, followed by a distant grouping of Bing then Bard. James Vincent, The Verge, 24 Mar. 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'tetrameter.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Greek tetrametron, from neuter of tetrametros having four measures, from tetra- + metron measure — more at measure

First Known Use

1612, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of tetrameter was in 1612

Dictionary Entries Near tetrameter

Cite this Entry

“Tetrameter.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tetrameter. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

tetrameter

noun
te·​tram·​e·​ter te-ˈtram-ət-ər How to pronounce tetrameter (audio)
: a line of verse consisting of four metrical feet

More from Merriam-Webster on tetrameter

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