Poetry Terms, Figurative Language, & Sound Devices

This set of flashcards covers essential poetry terms, figurative language, and sound devices explained in the lecture notes.

stanza

Groups that a poem’s lines are arranged into.

rhyme scheme

The pattern of rhymes in a poem.

enjambment

When a line of poetry runs over into the next line without ending punctuation.

end stop

When a line ends with a punctuation mark, like a period or a comma.

meter

The rhythmic structure created by the arrangement of stressed and unstressed syllables.

figurative language

A type of descriptive language used to convey meaning in a way that differs from its literal meaning.

metaphor

A direct comparison of two unlike things.

simile

A direct comparison of two unlike things using 'like' or 'as'.

alliteration

Same beginning consonant sounds.

hyperbole

An exaggeration that cannot possibly be true.

personification

Gives human qualities to nonhuman things.

onomatopoeia

Words whose sounds suggest their meaning.

allusion

A reference to a person, place, or event from literature, sports, history, or the arts.

sound devices

A type of descriptive language that conveys meaning in a way that differs from its literal meaning.

assonance

The repetition of the same or similar vowel sounds in close words, phrases, or syllables.

consonance

The repetition of the same or similar consonant sounds in close words, phrases, or syllables.

euphony

Language which strikes the ear as pleasant, smooth, or musical.

cacophony

Language that sounds harsh and discordant.