rhythm
Plural
rhythms
1
a strong repeated pattern of musical notes or sounds
Rhythm is a pattern of sounds or beats that repeats at regular intervals. In literature, it often refers to the arrangement of stressed and unstressed syllables in poetry, creating a flow or beat. In music, rhythm involves the timing of notes and chords, creating a structured pattern of beats and pauses. Rhythm helps to set the pace and mood of a piece, making it more engaging and dynamic. For instance, in poetry, a regular pattern of stressed and unstressed syllables creates a rhythmic flow, while in music, the rhythm of drum beats or instrumental sections provides a foundation for the composition.
- She clapped along with the rhythm of the music.
- The drummer set a steady rhythm for the band.
- The rhythm of the song made everyone want to dance.
- The jazz piece had a complex and syncopated rhythm.
- The marching band followed a precise rhythm.
Synonyms:
2
a visual or design principle involving repetition or alternation of elements to create movement or flow
Rhythm refers to the repetition of elements to create a sense of movement and flow. It guides the viewer's eye through the design in an intentional pattern, similar to how beats in music guide the ears. Rhythm can be created through repeating shapes, colors, lines, or textures, helping to bring the design together and make it more engaging and lively. Proper use of rhythm makes a design feel active and connected.
- The wallpaper has a rhythm created by repeating patterns.
- The architect used rhythm to guide the viewer's eye through the building.
- The painting achieves a sense of rhythm through alternating colors.
- Designers often use rhythm to create dynamic layouts.
- The garden's rhythm is established by evenly spaced trees.
Synonyms:
3
a method of natural family planning based on calculating fertile days in a menstrual cycle
- She used the rhythm method to avoid pregnancy.
- The couple followed rhythm carefully to track fertility.
- Doctors sometimes advise rhythm as one form of contraception.
- Rhythm requires regular monitoring of cycle dates.
- They relied on rhythm instead of hormonal birth control.
4
the patterned arrangement of stressed and unstressed syllables in speech or poetry
Rhythm refers to the pattern of stressed and unstressed syllables in spoken language, creating a musical quality to speech. It involves the timing and flow of sounds, where some syllables are emphasized more than others, giving speech a distinct beat. For example, in a sentence, certain words or syllables may be spoken more forcefully, while others are softer. This pattern helps convey meaning and emotion, making speech more engaging and easier to understand. Recognizing rhythm is essential for effective communication and enhances the overall experience of listening.
- The poet's rhythm emphasized the natural stress of words.
- Nursery rhymes often have a simple rhythm.
- He studied the rhythm of Shakespearean verse.
- Rhythm in speech can enhance oral presentation.
- The rhythm of the sentence made it more memorable.
Synonyms:
5
a recurring sequence or interval in the timing of events or actions
- The city's rhythm is busy during the day and quiet at night.
- His work follows a rhythm of intense activity and rest.
- He appreciated the rhythm of life in the countryside.
- Daily routines establish a rhythm for children.
- The machine operates in a steady rhythm.