noun
prose
PROHZ/prəʊz/
Written or spoken language not arranged in verse.
The author writes in prose rather than arranging words in verse.
Etymology
Latin prosa was short for “straightforward or direct speech,” without the ornaments of verse. This contrast between direct expression and verse underlies the meaning of ordinary, nonmetrical language.
In context
"Speak the speech I pray you as I pronounce it to you." Well, prose has rhythm but no meter.
More examples
- The actors speak in prose throughout most of the play.
- Her clear prose makes a complicated subject easy to understand.
- The collection includes both poems and short pieces of prose.
Similar words
- writing
- Refers to written language, including both prose and verse.