A concise definition of Cinquain along with usage tips, an expanded explanation, and lots of examples.

What is a Cinquain? A cinquain – which, by the way, is pronounced “sin-cane,” not “sin-kwane” – is a form of poetry that is very popular because of its simplicity. It was created by American poet Adelaide Crapsey about 100 years ago, and is similar …

Cinquain / ˈsɪŋkeɪn / is a class of poetic forms that employ a 5-line pattern. Earlier used to describe any five-line form, it now refers to one of several forms that are defined by specific rules and guidelines.

Feb 21, 2025 · A cinquain, from the French “cinq” for “five”, is a five-line stanza in poetry. When this one stanza sits alone as an entire poem, or when a poem is constructed (with specific rules) through five-line stanzas, it then becomes a cinquain poem.

By Dr Oliver Tearle (Loughborough University) What are the best examples of the cinquain in English and American poetry? There is actually more than one way to define what a cinquain actually is, but the broadest definition is that a cinquain is any five-line poem.

The cinquain, also known as a quintain or quintet, is a poem or stanza composed of five lines. More about the Cinquain Form. Examples of cinquains can be found in many European …

Jan 4, 2021 · Cinquain poems show how a message doesn’t need to be long; it can be told in just five lines. Check out these vivid cinquain poem examples for yourself.

A cinquain is a poetic form that makes use of a pattern of five lines. E.g. The cinquain structure of five lines and a specific syllable pattern allows poets to craft concise and evocative verses, often capturing fleeting moments or emotions in a succinct yet impactful manner.

The meaning of CINQUAIN is a 5-line stanza.

Cinquain, a five-line stanza. The American poet Adelaide Crapsey (1878–1914), applied the term in particular to a five-line verse form of specific metre that she developed. Analogous to the Japanese verse forms haiku and tanka, it has two syllables …