Meaning of the word iamb in English

What does iamb mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

iamb

US /ˈaɪ.æm/
UK /ˈaɪ.æm/
"iamb" picture

Noun

a metrical foot consisting of one short (or unstressed) syllable followed by one long (or stressed) syllable, as in the word 'define'

Example:
The most common metrical foot in English poetry is the iamb.
Shakespeare often used iambic pentameter in his plays.