syllaba anceps

noun

syl·​la·​ba an·​ceps
ˌsiləbəˈäŋˌkeps,
-aŋˌke-,
-anˌse-
: a syllable occurring at the end of a sentence or verse in a metrical scheme whose short or long quantity is obscured by the terminal pause
specifically : such a syllable occurring in the rhythms of ancient verse wherever there is a diaeresis or serving as a terminal demarcation at the end of a verse or between asynartetic cola

Word History

Etymology

Latin, literally, doubtful syllable

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Cite this Entry

“Syllaba anceps.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/syllaba%20anceps. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.

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