Definition

A correspondence of sound between words or the endings of words, typically occurring at the end of lines in poetry or songs. Rhyming creates a musicality and pattern that is central to many poetic forms and songwriting traditions.

Example Usage

The poet used rhyme throughout the verse, with 'cat' rhyming with 'bat' and 'sat.'

Origin

From Old English and Old French, ultimately derived from Greek 'rhythmos,' meaning 'measured flow' or 'rhythm,' though the word's evolution involved some semantic shift.

Fun Fact

Perfect rhymes (identical sounds) are called 'true rhymes' or 'full rhymes,' while near-rhymes like 'home' and 'come' are called 'slant rhymes' or 'near rhymes.'

Source: Definition backfill (hailey)

Related Terms