choriambus
/ˌkɒrɪˈambəs
/noun (plural choriambi /ˌkɒrɪˈambʌɪ/)
A metrical foot consisting of two short (or unstressed) syllables between two long (or stressed) ones.Each pàda may be divided into three feet, the second always consisting of a choriambus, and the third of two iambics; while the first foot in the first pàda consists of a pyrrhic, in the second pàda of an anap æ st....
- In poetry, Choriambi are never used alone, but always combined with other metrical 'feet' such as spondees, trochees and dactyls.
- Occasionally the term choriambus is used of English verses - a foot made up of two light syllables between two stressed ones.
Derivatives
choriambic
/ adjective ...- The first line, for example, appears to begin with two unstressed syllables followed by two stressed ones, while the second line unquestionably contains a trochee and an iamb and therefore forms a choriambic foot.
- I cite a particularly interesting example from Greek metrics, an Archaic eight-syllable metrical unit known as the choriambic dimeter.
- Given the potential for resolution in this pattern, we should take note of the remarkable number of possible configurations for the first metron of the choriambic dimeter and its catalectic kin.
Origin
Late 18th century: via late Latin from Greek khoriambos, from khoreios 'of the dance' + iambos (see iambus).