Acrost is a term that is not commonly used in everyday language. However, it has a specific meaning and usage in literature and poetry. In this article, we will explore the definition, origin, and associations of acrost, as well as its synonyms, antonyms, and example sentences.
Definitions
Acrost is a literary device that involves using the first letter of each line to spell out a word or phrase. This word or phrase is usually related to the theme of the poem or work of literature. Acrost can also refer to an acronym or abbreviation that is created using the first letter of each word in a phrase.
Origin
The word acrost comes from the Greek words akros, meaning “topmost,” and stichos, meaning “line of verse.” The term was first used in English in the mid-17th century to describe a type of poem that spelled out a name or phrase using the first letter of each line.
Meaning in different dictionaries
Acrost is not a commonly used word, so it may not be found in all dictionaries. However, some dictionaries define acrost as a type of poem or literary device that uses the first letter of each line to spell out a word or phrase.
Associations
Acrost is often associated with poetry and literature. It is a creative way for authors to incorporate hidden messages or meanings into their work. Acrost can also be used in puzzles or games, where players must use the first letter of each word to form a new word or phrase.
Synonyms
There are several synonyms for acrost, including acrostic, acronym, abbreviation, and initialism. These terms all involve using the first letter of each word or line to create a new word or phrase.
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms for acrost, as it is a specific term that describes a particular literary device. However, some words that could be considered opposite in meaning include straightforward, simple, and direct.
The same root words
The root words of acrost are akros and stichos. These words have been used in other terms related to poetry and literature, such as acrostic and stichomythia.
Example Sentences
- The poet used acrost to spell out the name of his beloved in the first letter of each line.
- The puzzle required players to use acrost to form a hidden message.
- The abbreviation “NASA” is an example of an acrost that uses the first letter of each word in the phrase “National Aeronautics and Space Administration.”