A metrical foot in poetry consisting of a long syllable followed by two short syllables (⎯ ∪ ∪), also called a choriamb.
From Greek 'choreus' or 'choreia,' originally referring to a dance-like rhythm. The name reflects how this metrical pattern was felt to have a dancing quality in ancient Greek and Latin verse.
Ancient poets thought certain rhythms *felt* like dancing—the 'choreus' sounds bouncy and energetic because the long syllable lands heavy, then two quick ones trip along like dance steps.
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