Petrarchan sonnet

noun

Pe·​trar·​chan sonnet pi-ˈträr-kən- How to pronounce Petrarchan sonnet (audio)
ˌpē-,
(ˌ)pe-

Examples of Petrarchan sonnet in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web This 14-line pseudo-sonnet roughly follows the structure of a Petrarchan sonnet with its octave (first eight lines) stating a tension and the sestet (final six lines) including a volta (or turn). New York Times, 5 May 2022

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'Petrarchan sonnet.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Petrarch (Francesco Petrarca)

First Known Use

circa 1909, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Petrarchan sonnet was circa 1909

Dictionary Entries Near Petrarchan sonnet

Cite this Entry

“Petrarchan sonnet.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Petrarchan%20sonnet. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.

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