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 of poetry

• 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

Moro-Gronlier and Nicole Tallman, poetry ambassador for Miami-Dade County will moderate the session. —Michelle F. Solomon, Miami Herald, 14 Nov. 2025

Bareilles came to know Gibson and get involved in the project after having been a fan of their poetry and, coincidentally, in Colorado at the same time Gibson was doing one final live performance there, captured in the film. —Chris Willman, Variety, 14 Nov. 2025

Many commentators insist that Mamdani must now abandon poetry and deliver the policy. —Nicole West Bassoff, The Conversation, 14 Nov. 2025

But the film itself doesn't lead into politics the way that Andrea's poetry did. —Barry Levitt, Time, 14 Nov. 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