poetry
UK: ˈpəʊɪtri | US: ˈpoʊətri
n. Literary work in which language is used for its aesthetic and evocative qualities, often with rhythmic or metrical patterns.
n. The art or craft of writing such works.
n. A quality of beauty or emotional intensity regarded as characteristic of poems.
poetry = poet<maker, creator> + ry<noun suffix denoting art or practice>
- poet: From Greek poiētēs (maker, creator), via Latin poeta. Originally referred to a composer of verses.
- ry: A suffix of Old French origin (-erie), used to form nouns indicating a practice, art, or condition (e.g., "artistry," "chemistry").
Etymology Origin:
The word "poetry" traces back to the Greek poiēsis (making, creation), reflecting the ancient view of poets as craftsmen of language. The suffix -ry evolved from Old French -erie, which denoted a collective art or profession. Over time, "poetry" narrowed from the broader concept of "making" to specifically the art of rhythmic or imaginative language. The morphemes highlight the word’s dual focus: the creative act (poet) and its formal expression (-ry).
She finds solace in reading classical poetry.
Modern poetry often experiments with free verse.
The beauty of nature inspired his poetry.
Poetry slams are popular among young writers.
His speech had a lyrical quality, almost like poetry.