Limerick
Literary term · say it LIM-uh-rik
A limerick is a five-line poem, usually humorous, with an AABBA rhyme scheme and a bouncing rhythm. The first, second, and fifth lines are generally longer than the third and fourth, and the ending often brings a joke or an absurd twist.
How a limerick gets its humor
An absurd situation
A limerick can turn an ordinary problem into something impossible or ridiculous. Its short shape leaves little room for explanation, which adds to the fun.
In Edward Lear’s A Book of Nonsense, an old man discovers that several kinds of birds have built nests in his beard.
In A Book of Nonsense by Edward Lear
An exaggerated feature
A limerick can make one feature of a person comically extreme. Other people’s reactions often make the exaggeration even funnier.
In A Book of Nonsense, a young lady has eyes so remarkable in color and size that people run away when she opens them wide.
In A Book of Nonsense by Edward Lear
How to spot a limerick
- Count five lines.
- Check that lines one, two, and five rhyme, while lines three and four share another rhyme.
- Listen for longer outer lines and two shorter middle lines.
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Does a limerick have to be funny?
A limerick is usually funny, but its form matters more than whether it makes every reader laugh. Its five lines, AABBA rhyme scheme, and familiar rhythm make it recognizable. The humor may be silly, sharp, rude, or simply odd.
Does a limerick need an exact number of syllables?
A limerick does not need one fixed syllable count, but it does need a recognizable beat. The longer lines usually have three strong beats each, while the two shorter lines have two each. Reading aloud helps reveal whether the rhythm fits.
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