Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

/ˌæk.əˈtæl.ɛk.tɪk/

Definitions

• In poetry, having a complete number of syllables in a line, typically without any missing syllables (opposite of catalectic).
• Referring to a metrical line that is metrically complete, especially in classical poetry.

Usage Examples

• "The poem's rhythm was marked by its acatalectic lines, giving it a sense of completeness."
• "In classical verse, an acatalectic line is one that maintains the full number of syllables as expected."

Etymology

From Greek "a-" meaning "not" and "catalectic", from "katalektikos", meaning "incomplete".

Synonyms

• Complete
• Full
• Unbroken

Antonyms

• Catalectic
• Incomplete

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In American English, the pronunciation is /ˌæk.əˈtæl.ɛk.tɪk/.
• In British English, the stress may slightly vary to /ˌæk.əˈtæl.ɛk.tɪk/ with a clearer emphasis on the second syllable.

Historical Usage

The term "acatalectic" has been used since the early 17th century to describe metrical lines that are complete in form, particularly in relation to classical Greek and Latin poetry, where precision in rhythm and syllable count was paramount.

Cultural Nuances

In poetry and literature, the use of acatalectic lines can be seen as a stylistic choice to convey structure and completeness. Some poets use acatalectic lines to create a feeling of balance, while others might purposefully leave lines catalectic (incomplete) to evoke tension or unfinished thoughts.

More Information

Acatalectic lines are commonly found in classical poetry forms such as the Greek hexameter and Latin epic poetry. The importance of syllabic structure in these traditions led to the classification of metrical completeness and incompleteness. In contemporary poetry, the concept of acatalexis is mostly discussed in relation to traditional forms, though free verse poets may play with the idea of line completeness in their own ways.