poetry

noun

po·​et·​ry ˈpō-ə-trē How to pronounce poetry (audio)
-i-trē
also ˈpȯ(-)i-trē
Synonyms of poetrynext
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

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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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Poetry on board On a visit to one of the boat schools this summer, 27 students sat on benches and recited Bangla poetry with their teacher. — Ali Asif Shawon, NPR, 5 Sep. 2026 For a moment, architecture, music, and poetry became indistinguishable. — Octavia McBride-Ahebee, Christian Science Monitor, 4 Sep. 2026 Saikia said the track’s soundscape aimed to hold the depth of Azmi’s poetry and Nooran’s voice while retaining the soul of Sufi music. — Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 3 Sep. 2026 Friends and acquaintances were very familiar with my devotion to his fiction, essays and poetry. — Literary Hub, 2 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for poetry

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of poetry was in the 14th century

Phrases Containing poetry

Browse Nearby Words

poetress
poetry
poetry in motion
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Cite this Entry

“Poetry.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/poetry. Accessed 7 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

poetry

noun
po·​et·​ry ˈpō-ə-trē How to pronounce poetry (audio)
-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

More from Merriam-Webster on poetry

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about poetry

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