Iambic pentameter is a type of metric line used in traditional English poetry and verse drama. The term describes the rhythm, or meter, established by the words in that line; rhythm is measured in small groups of syllables called "feet".

How do I know if iambic pentameter?

Because this line has five feet that each contain an unstressed syllable followed by a stressed syllable, we know that it's a verse written in iambic pentameter. When the whole poem is written with the same rhythm, we can say that the poem has iambic pentameter, too!

What is an example of an iambic pentameter?

Here are examples of iambic pentameter in use: From “Holy Sonnet XIV” by John Donne: “As yet but knock, breathe, shine and seek to mend. Every other word in these two lines of poetry are stressed.