poetic

adjective

po·​et·​ic pō-ˈe-tik 

1

a

: of, relating to, or characteristic of poets or poetry

b

: given to writing poetry

2

: written in verse

3

: having or expressing the qualities of poetry (as through aesthetic or emotional impact)

poetic language

her poetic beauty

Synonyms of poetic

• poetical
• lyrical
• lyric
• poeticized

Examples of poetic in a Sentence

your description of the sun setting over the Grand Canyon was a particularly poetic piece of writing

Recent Examples on the Web

Marayrasu, his first collection of stories to receive an English translation, expands his reach, introducing readers to his tough yet richly poetic world. —Tiffany Kelly, Entertainment Weekly, 9 Jan. 2026

As Jaclyn and Kate wax poetic about a dream vacation that never happened, Laurie’s weary, silent glances seem to tee up an explosive confrontation. —Christian Zilko, IndieWire, 7 Jan. 2026

Soon after, though, Tarr would move toward a more poetic, existential style. —Tim Grierson, Rolling Stone, 6 Jan. 2026

Felix’s memoir-manifesto draws on Black radical poetic traditions to argue for the pragmatic power of poetry, and for language as a tool for liberation. —Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 6 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1500, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing poetic

• poetic justice
• poetic license

Rhymes for poetic

• acetic
• aesthetic
• ascetic
• athletic
• cosmetic
• diegetic
• eidetic
• emetic
• esthetic
• frenetic
• genetic
• helvetic

Kids Definition

poetic

adjective

po·​et·​ic pō-ˈet-ik 

1

: of, relating to, or characteristic of poets or poetry

poetic words

2

: written in verse

poetical

-i-kəl

adjective

poetically

-k(ə-)lē

adverb