poetry

noun

po·​et·​ry ˈpō-ə-trē How to pronounce poetry (audio)
-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

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
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 See All Example Sentences for poetry

Word History

First Known Use

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of poetry was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Poetry.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/poetry. Accessed 17 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

poetry

noun
po·​et·​ry ˈpō-ə-trē How to pronounce poetry (audio)
-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

More from Merriam-Webster on poetry

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