Anapaest
/ˈænəpest/
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Poetic Rhythm
Anapaest is used to create a specific rhythmic pattern in poetry that mimics a galloping or waltzing motion. 
Composing a sonnet? Try using an anapaest to add a lively rhythm.
Pro Tip 2/3Speech Emphasis
When reading poetry aloud, emphasize the third syllable in an anapaestic foot to capture the intended beat. 
The children were jumping so high—'jumping' pronounced with emphasis follows the anapaest pattern.
Pro Tip 3/3Literary Effect
Anapaests can impart a playful, lighthearted tone, contrasting more serious meters like iambic pentameter. 
The playful fairy flew, each 'flew' pronounced with zest, an example of anapaest's tone.
Compare with
MetricalPoeticRhythmicTrochaic
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