Acatalectic couplet: A specific type of heroic couplet, characterized by two lines of verse written in iambic pentameter that are complete and unaltered by metrical substitution or omission. The term "acatalectic" derives from a Greek word meaning "not cut short," signifying that the line possesses its full, expected number of syllables and stresses according to its metrical pattern. In an acatalectic couplet, neither line is catalectic (missing a final foot) or hypermetric (having an extra, unstressed syllable). This results in a sense of formal perfection, balance, and finality, making it a powerful tool for concluding arguments, delivering epigrams, or providing definitive statements within a larger narrative or dramatic work. Alexander Pope is a master of the acatalectic heroic couplet, using its precise, ringing structure to create elegant and authoritative conclusions, as seen throughout his satirical and didactic poetry. The regularity of this form contrasts with lines that incorporate caesuras or enjambment, which disrupt the syntactic and rhythmic flow.

Complete couplet without truncation. Standard form—most couplets are acatalectic. Term used primarily in prosodic analysis when distinguishing from catalectic couplets.