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DictionarypoemPoetic writing
noun

poem

POH-uhm/ˈpəʊəm/

A piece of writing using rhythm, imagery, or concentrated language.

The short poem occupies four lines on the sheet beside the pen.

A small sheet bearing four short rhythmic verse lines represented by abstract nonlegible ink strokes beside a wildflower and pen, clearly verse layout, no readable words.
Etymology
poemGreekthing made; poetical work

A poem is etymologically a “thing made or created,” treating poetic composition as an act of making. English first used it for metrical writing, then also for writing marked by imaginative beauty without necessarily using verse.

In context

TheBookwormDuoPodcast21:03
This poem uses fragmented language and evocative imagery to explore themes of confinement, suffocation, and the struggle for freedom.
Book Review Episode 80: Invisible Strings

More examples

  • His poem captures the loneliness of an empty house.
  • Not all poems rhyme or follow a regular rhythm.
  • We each write a short poem about someone we love.

Forms

poem · poems

poet noun — A person who writes poems.

poetry noun — Poems considered collectively or as literary art.

Similar words

verse
Often emphasizes metrical writing rather than a single complete work.
lyric
Usually a short poem expressing a speaker's personal feelings.