Cinquains

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A five-line poem with a specific syllable pattern that conveys a vivid image or emotion
2. A structured form of verse consisting of five lines, often characterized by a set syllable count for each line
3. A poetic style that comprises five lines, designed to evoke feelings or depict scenes through concise language

Etymology: The plural "cinquains" is simply the plural of "cinquain," a five-line poem, borrowed from French. The French word derives from "cinq," meaning "five," reflecting the poem's five lines. In English the form is used for poems of this shape, and the most famous modern example is Adelaide Crapsey's American "cinquain" verse of the early twentieth century, which she built around a fixed syllable count.

Synonyms: quintains