Antibacchius

/ˌæntiˈbækiəs/ noun

Definition

A metrical foot in poetry consisting of three syllables with the pattern of unstressed-stressed-stressed, opposite to the bacchius.

Etymology

From anti- (against) + bacchius (from Latin Bacchus, god of wine). In classical Greek and Latin poetry, this foot creates a particular rhythmic pattern. The term is used almost exclusively by classical scholars and poetry specialists.

Kelly Says

If you're reading ancient Greek drama, spotting antibacchii helps you understand the original emotional intensity—a line full of them feels urgent and driving, completely different from surrounding verses!

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