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Catalectic

Definition:

Catalectic is a term used in poetry to describe a metrically incomplete line or foot where one or more unstressed syllables are missing at the ending. It refers to the loss or omission of one or more syllables in a metrical line.

Examples:

Example 1: In the line "To be or not to be" from Shakespeare's Hamlet, the word "be" is catalectic as it lacks the expected unstressed syllable at the end.

Example 2: The phrase "All that glitters is not gold" features a catalectic foot in the final word "gold" where an unstressed syllable is omitted.

Part of Speech:

Noun

Senses:

Sense 1: A metrically incomplete line or foot in poetry.

Usages:

Usage 1: Catalectic lines add a unique rhythmic effect to poetry.

Usage 2: Catalectic feet are commonly used in various poetic forms such as sonnets and ballads.

Related Products:

• Catalectic Poetry Books
• Catalectic Forms in Poetry
• Catalectic Meter in Verse