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Quatrain - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

A quatrain is a four-line stanza in poetry, often with a specific rhyme scheme. It is commonly used in various poetic forms, such as sonnets and ballads, to convey complete thoughts or ideas.

quatrain

/ˈkwɑːtreɪn/ /ˈkwɒtreɪn/

Definition:

A stanza or poem of four lines, often with a specific rhyme scheme.

Synonyms:

stanza, verse, poem, tetrastich

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

prose, free verse

Common Collocations:

rhyming quatrain, heroic quatrain, ballad quatrain, Shakespearean quatrain

Derivatives:

quatrains, quatrained (rare)

Usage Tips:

Use 'quatrain' to describe a four-line poetic form, often with rhymes like AABB or ABAB.

Common Phrases:

"heroic quatrain, " "ballad quatrain, " "Shakespearean quatrain"

Etymology:

From French 'quatraine,' derived from Latin 'quattuor' (four).

Examples:

  • 1. She wrote a heartfelt quatrain for her friend's birthday card.
  • 2. The poem’s final quatrain summarized its theme beautifully.
  • 3. His favorite quatrain had an ABAB rhyme scheme.
  • 4. We analyzed a Shakespearean quatrain in class today.

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