poetry

noun

po·​et·​ry ˈpō-ə-trē 

-i-trē,

 also  ˈpȯ(-)i-trē

1

a

: metrical writing : verse

b

: the productions of a poet : poems

2

: writing that formulates a concentrated imaginative awareness of experience in language chosen and arranged to create a specific emotional response through meaning, sound, and rhythm

3

a

: something likened to poetry especially in beauty of expression

b

: poetic quality or aspect

the poetry of dance

Synonyms

• song
• verse
• rhyme
• poesy

Examples of poetry in a Sentence

I read the poem in a collection of modern poetry.

She's published two books of lyric poetry and a novel.

He found it easiest to express himself in the language of poetry.

Her dancing is pure poetry.

Recent Examples on the Web

New album, new book Anderson will embark on an acoustic tour this fall, showcasing not only his deeply personal project but also a book of poetry written by his wife. —Bryan West, Nashville Tennessean, 10 Oct. 2025

With themes of resilience, victory, and joy as a healing balm, Joy in the Belly of a Riot is a beautiful manifestation of how poetry has the power to heal and help one overcome pain. —Lynnette Nicholas, Essence, 9 Oct. 2025

Calliope, one of the nine Muses, is associated with music, song, dance and epic poetry. —Leo Bertucci, Louisville Courier Journal, 9 Oct. 2025

In past decades, the Nobel Prize committee has tended to prefer lucidity and clarity, in poetry as well as prose, over experimentation. —Walt Hunter, The Atlantic, 9 Oct. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing poetry

• concrete poetry
• poetry in motion
• poetry reading

Kids Definition

poetry

noun

po·​et·​ry ˈpō-ə-trē 

-i-trē

1

a

: writing usually with a rhythm that repeats : verse

b

: the productions of a poet : poems

2

: writing chosen and arranged to create a certain emotional response through meaning, sound, and rhythm