What Is a Limerick? Definition and Example Explained

Learn what a limerick is, its unique rhyme scheme, and see a classic example of this humorous five-line poetry form.

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A limerick is a form of humorous five-line poetry with a specific rhythm and rhyme scheme (AABBA). Here's an example: There once was a man from Peru Who dreamed he was eating his shoe. He awoke with a fright In the middle of the night To find that his dream had come true.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What is the rhyme scheme of a limerick? A limerick follows a specific AABBA rhyme scheme, where the first, second, and fifth lines rhyme, and the third and fourth lines rhyme separately.
  2. How many lines are in a limerick? A limerick consists of five lines.
  3. What makes limericks humorous? Limericks are humorous due to their witty, often whimsical or silly content combined with a catchy rhythm and rhyme.
  4. Can you give an example of a limerick? Yes, for example: There once was a man from Peru / Who dreamed he was eating his shoe. / He awoke with a fright / In the middle of the night / To find that his dream had come true.