versification

[ vur-suh-fi-key-shuhn ]

noun

1. the act of versifying.
2. verse form; metrical structure.
3. a metrical version of something.
4. the art or practice of composing verses.

versification

/ ˌvɜːsɪfɪˈkeɪʃən /

noun

1. the technique or art of versifying
2. the form or metrical composition of a poem
3. a metrical version of a prose text

Word History and Origins

Origin of versification¹

1595–1605; < Latin versificātiōn- (stem of versificātiō ), equivalent to versificāt ( us ) (past participle of versificāre to versify; -ate ¹ ) + -iōn- -ion

Example Sentences

When Stoner asks about Anglo-Saxon versification, Walker responds with talk of “sensibility.”

From The New Yorker

Shenstone’s ease of versification adds mimetic pleasure: we can relax in the cosy-armchair stanzas, and imagine firelight, friendliness and something warming to sip.

From The Guardian

This does not necessarily include a gift for versification, which is an aptitude shared by many who are not truly poets.

From The New Yorker

It was as though Mary Poppins had taken a class in versification.

From The New Yorker

Between his rough versification and the polished elegance of Pope there can be no comparison; but the thoughts are the same.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• verse