Meter

Definition: A pattern of rhythm - stressed and unstressed syllables.

Example:

- - / - - /

Hickory, dickory, dock,

- / - / - /

The mice ran up the clock.

- / - /

The clock struck one,

- / - /

The mice ran down.

/ - - / - - /

Hickory, dickory , dock.

Significance: We use meter to help the reader enjoy the poem better. When they read it out loud, it will sound like a song.