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Definition of stanza

stanza

/ˈstæn.zə/
stan · za
Adverb:stanzaically
•
Plural:stanzas
•
Adjective:stanzaic
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stanza Lexical Profile

stanza Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A group of lines forming the basic recurring metrical unit in a poem, typically separated from other groups by a blank line or indentation.

Example

"The poet uses a different rhyme scheme in the final stanza to emphasize the shift in tone."

2

North American A period, inning, or division of play in a sporting contest.

Example

"The visiting team scored two unanswered goals in the opening stanza of the championship game."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for stanza

• Rhymes for stanza

• Nearby Words

standup
stanhopea
stanislaus
stanza
stapelia
staph
staphylea

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 16th century from Italian stanza, literally meaning 'room' or 'stopping place', from Vulgar Latin *stantia ('a standing'), derived from the Latin verb stare ('to stand'). The poetic sense developed from the idea of a pause or stopping place at the end of a group of lines.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Stanza. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/stanza
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