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terza rima

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ter·​za ri·​ma | \ ˌtert-sə-ˈrē-mə How to pronounce terza rima (audio) \

Definition of terza rima

: a verse form consisting of tercets usually in iambic pentameter in English poetry with an interlaced rhyme scheme (such as aba, bcb, cdc)

Examples of terza rima in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Kendrick Lamar might be influenced by Dante’s terza rima verse form! — Washington Post, 17 Dec. 2021 Jean Hollander, the author of several books of poetry, took on the translation of the verse — an already herculean task made more difficult by the challenge of re-creating Dante’s terza rima tercets in English. — Washington Post, 18 June 2021

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'terza rima.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of terza rima

1819, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for terza rima

Italian, literally, third rhyme

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The first known use of terza rima was in 1819

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Dictionary Entries Near terza rima

tervalent

terza rima

terzetto

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Cite this Entry

“Terza rima.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/terza%20rima. Accessed 25 Jun. 2022.

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More from Merriam-Webster on terza rima

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about terza rima

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