Poet
UK /["/ˈpəʊɪt/"]/US /["/ˈpəʊət/"]/
Definition
a person who writes poems
In simple words: A person who writes poems.
Examples
- an internationally renowned poet
- the Romantic poets
- a performance poet *(= who performs poems to an audience)*
- These river banks have inspired poets for many centuries.
- the foremost poet of his generation
- She wrote with the freedom characteristic of the other modernist poets.
Usage notes
Use 'poet' in both formal and casual conversations. It is appropriate when discussing literature, arts, or a person's profession. Avoid using it in very technical or scientific contexts.
Grammar pattern
standalone noun
Memory hint
Think of 'poet' like 'poet-ry'—imagine a person crafting beautiful words.
Collocations
- accomplished
- good
- great
- inspire
- write something
Synonyms
- bard
- verse-maker
- rhymer
- lyricist
- wordsmith
Antonyms
- prose writer
- non-writer
Common mistakes
- Mispronouncing as 'poet' instead of 'poe-it'.
- Confusing with 'poetry' or 'poem' as a job instead of a person.