Metrically

Part of speech: adverb

Definitions

1. In a fashion associated with the evaluation of structured measurement or rhythm in poetry Relating to the systematic analysis of metrics in various contexts Concerning the adherence to defined measurement principles and patterns
2. Done in a way that follows the rhythmic structure, especially in poetry or music
3. Characterized by conformity to a regular pattern of beats or stresses

Etymology: "Metrically" is simply "metrical" with the adverbial ending "-ly" added. "Metrical" comes from "metric," which traces back through Latin "metricus" to Greek "metrikos," meaning "pertaining to measure," from "metron," measure. English "metrical" was used for matters of verse measure long before the word spread into wider senses of systematic measurement. The adverb is built from the adjective by the suffix "-ly," which itself descends from Old English "-līc," a word meaning "body" or "form" that gradually became a general marker of manner. So "metrically" literally describes doing something in the manner of measured form. The root of the suffix is the same idea that gave English "like" and "lich" in compounds such as "lichgate."

Synonyms: geometrically, proportionally