Antimetrical

/ˌæntiːˈmetrɪkəl/ adjective

Definition

Opposed to or not following meter, rhythm, or measured patterns, especially in poetry or music.

Etymology

From anti- (against) + metrical (from Greek metron, 'measure'). Emerged in literary criticism to describe verse that deliberately rejects traditional rhythmic patterns.

Kelly Says

Free verse poetry is antimetrical—and it revolutionized poetry in the 20th century by proving that rhyme and regular rhythm aren't necessary for beauty and meaning!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.