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

• minstrelsy
• poesy
• song
• verse

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

His books have been translated into over 30 languages, and his stories, poetry and features have appeared in the Atlantic Monthly, The Guardian and Asimov’s Science Fiction. —Justin Kroll, Deadline, 16 Aug. 2024

Structured in two halves, 7 Walks with Mark Brown first documents the making of these expeditions and then presents the result, a cinematic work of taxonomy and poetry, of nature and camaraderie. —Ryan Lattanzio, IndieWire, 15 Aug. 2024

The event features poetry, music, theater, workshops and more with local artists to highlight the importance of the arts on well-being. —Sommer Brugal, Axios, 15 Aug. 2024

The production team also announced the launch of the Shifting The Narrative Bookshop, a pop-up initiative showcasing Black British playwriting, literature and poetry. —Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 8 Aug. 2024

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