haiku
HY-koo
/ˈhaɪ.kuː/
A major form of Japanese verse, written in 17 syllables divided into three lines of 5, 7, and 5 syllables.
Traditionally focuses on nature, a specific season, and a single vivid moment.
The story behind the word. Coined in late 19th-century Japan by Masaoka Shiki from an abbreviation of 'haikai no renga' (amusing linked verse).
Commonly confused with
- limerick: A limerick is a light 5-line humorous poem; a haiku is a contemplative 3-line poem.
Collocations
- traditional haiku
- write a haiku
- haiku master
Example sentences
- "An old silent pond... / A frog jumps into the pond, / splash! Silence again." Poetry exercise
Memory hook
HAI-KU: High-five (5), Seven (7), High-five (5) syllables! 5-7-5 nature poem.
When not to use
Avoid calling any brief poem a haiku if it lacks the 5-7-5 syllable arrangement or nature theme.
Fun facts
- Traditional Japanese haiku must contain a 'kigo' — a word that indicates the season.
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