What does metrical mean?
Metrical is an adjective describing something governed by, or characteristically expressing, metre. Its best-established use is in the study of poetry, where a metrical pattern is a regular arrangement of poetic feet built from stressed and unstressed syllables. A poem may therefore be described as metrical, or its structure may be examined through metrical analysis. The word can also apply more broadly to measurable rhythm in speech, music, or movement. Unlike the general word rhythmic, which may suggest a recurring beat of any kind, metrical often implies an organized system of measure. It is consequently common in formal literary discussion but also useful in musicology and prosody. The term derives ultimately from the Greek word for “measure,” linking it to related words such as metric, metre, and metronome.
adjectiveRelating to or characterized by poetic meter, especially the regular arrangement of stressed and unstressed syllables. It may also describe rhythm or other measurable features of speech, music, or movement.
- Relating to or characterized by metre, especially the patterned arrangement of stressed and unstressed syllables in poetry.
"The poem's metrical structure gives the verses a steady, ceremonial rhythm."
"Her careful attention to metre produced a metrical reading that sounded natural."
"The composer revised the refrain to give it a more clearly metrical pulse."
metrical traces its roots to the Greek metron, meaning “measure”—the same source behind metre, metric, and metronome.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does metrical come from?
Metrical comes through Latin from the Greek metron, meaning “measure.” The same root underlies metre, metric, and metronome, all of which concern measurement. In English, the adjective became especially associated with the measured patterns of poetic verse.
Related word forms
How metrical is actually used
In its most common specialized use, the word concerns the formal measurement of verse. It is often used in literary criticism and prosody, while related musical uses emphasize regularity and pulse.