Optional English - Rhyme

OPTIONAL ENGLISH: RHYME


RHYME: 


Rhyme is the similarity in sound between words or syllables. 

If the words or syllables at the end of two lines of poetry have similar sounds, then we say that the two lines rhyme together.


If only one syllable is rhyming, it is called “single” or “masculine” rhyme.
Examples: ring, sing

If two syllables are rhyming, it is called “double” or “feminine” rhyme.
Examples: ringing, singing

If three syllables are rhyming, it is called “triple” rhyme.

Double and Triple rhyme are used rarely as they make poetry appear odd and artificial.


Generally, only the last words of two lines rhyme together.

But sometimes, even the middle word can rhyme with the last word in the same line.

If a word in the middle of a line rhymes with a word at the end of the line, it is called “Medial Rhyme”.

Using medial rhyme in poetry makes it more musical.


Rhyme is not compulsory in poetry, but it is very commonly used and adds beauty to poetry.

When poetry is written without rhyme, it is called “Blank Verse”.

Blank verse is written in Iambic Pentametre.