The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

sonnet

IPA:

Dictionary definition of sonnet

A specific form of poetry that originated in Italy during the 13th century and gained prominence during the Renaissance.
"Shakespeare's sonnets are renowned for their lyrical beauty and timeless themes."

Detailed meaning of sonnet

It is characterized by its rigid structure, consisting of 14 lines and a specific rhyme scheme. Sonnets typically adhere to either the Petrarchan or Shakespearean form. Petrarchan sonnets are divided into an octave (eight lines) and a sestet (six lines), with a volta or turn in thought occurring between them. The rhyme scheme in a Petrarchan sonnet is typically ABBAABBA for the octave, followed by various possibilities for the sestet. On the other hand, Shakespearean sonnets are structured into three quatrains (four-line stanzas) and a concluding couplet (two lines), with a rhyme scheme of ABABCDCDEFEFGG. Sonnets are often written in iambic pentameter, a metrical pattern consisting of five stressed and unstressed syllables per line. They serve as a poetic form that allows for the expression of complex emotions, contemplations on love, beauty, mortality, and the human condition, offering a concise and structured medium for conveying deep and nuanced thoughts and feelings.

Example sentences containing sonnet

1. She wrote a heartfelt sonnet as a tribute to her late grandmother.
2. The poet composed a sonnet about unrequited love, capturing the pain and longing within its 14 lines.
3. The sonneteer carefully crafted each line of the sonnet, ensuring the perfect rhythm and rhyme.
4. He recited a classic sonnet at the poetry reading, captivating the audience with his words.
5. The anthology contained a collection of sonnets from various renowned poets throughout history.
6. She challenged herself to write a sonnet every day for a month, exploring different topics and emotions.

History and etymology of sonnet

Sonnet' has a rich literary history with its roots in Italian poetry. The word 'sonnet' is derived from the Italian word 'sonetto,' which means 'a little song' or 'a small sound.' This term aptly reflects the defining characteristics of a sonnet—a concise and structured form of poetry known for its lyrical qualities. The sonnet gained prominence during the Italian Renaissance, particularly through the works of Petrarch, and later made its way to other European languages, including English. The structured rhyme scheme and meter of the sonnet, along with its potential for exploring themes of love, beauty, and introspection, have made it a cherished and enduring form of expression in the world of literature.

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Further usage examples of sonnet

1. The teacher explained the structure and rhyme scheme of a sonnet to the students, encouraging them to try their hand at writing one.
2. The sonnet's volta surprised the reader with a sudden shift in perspective, adding depth to the poem.
3. His sonnet was selected for publication in the literary magazine, bringing him recognition as a promising young poet.
4. The poet's sonnet expressed the ephemeral beauty of a blooming flower, capturing its fleeting existence.
5. They exchanged handwritten sonnets as love letters, weaving their feelings into the structured verses.
6. He penned a heartfelt sonnet about his unrequited love.
7. The sonnet's structure consists of fourteen lines.
8. She recited a Shakespearean sonnet at the poetry reading.
9. The poet was renowned for his mastery of the sonnet form.
10. Writing a Petrarchan sonnet can be a creative challenge.
11. The sonnet's theme explored the beauty of nature.
12. He composed a sonnet to express his devotion to his beloved.
13. The sonnet's rhyming scheme followed the ABAB pattern.
14. Shakespeare's sonnets are considered a literary masterpiece.
15. The poet's sonnet collection was published posthumously.
16. The sonnet's meter adhered to iambic pentameter.
17. She analyzed the metaphors in the famous sonnet.
18. The sonnet captured the essence of fleeting moments.
19. A well-crafted sonnet can convey profound emotions.
20. The sonnet's volta signaled a shift in the poem's theme.
21. Many poets find inspiration in writing sonnets.
22. The sonnet's structure allows for concise expression.
23. The sonnet's beauty lies in its lyrical brevity.
24. He crafted a sonnet that celebrated the changing seasons.
25. The sonnet remains a timeless form of poetic expression.