Glossary of Poetic Terms
-
Litotes
- A deliberate understatement for effect; the opposite of hyperbole. For example, a good idea may be described as “not half bad,” or a difficult task considered “no small feat.” Litotes is found frequently in Old English poetry; “That was a good king,” declares the narrator of the Beowulf epic after summarizing the Danish king’s great virtues. See also Irony.
Looking to learn about poetry?
-
Check out our Learn area, where we have separate offerings for children, teens, adults, and educators.