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Double spondee

Meter
Pronunciation

Understanding ARPABET Pronunciation

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The pronunciation guide uses the ARPABET phonetic system—the same system used in speech recognition and text-to-speech applications.

Vowel Examples:
AE1 = cat, bat
EH1 = bed, head
IY1 = see, me
OW1 = go, boat
UW1 = boot, do
Stress Numbers:
0 = no stress (unstressed)
1 = primary stress (loud)
2 = secondary stress (medium)
Example:
AH0 TH IY1 N AH0
= a-THEE-na (Athena)

The stressed syllable (marked with 1) is pronounced louder and clearer than others.

Quick Definition

Two consecutive spondaic feet creating four stressed syllables in sequence

Detailed Definition
Double spondee refers to two consecutive spondaic feet, creating four stressed syllables in sequence. This heavy, emphatic pattern produces powerful deceleration and weight, often employed for dramatic emphasis, solemn moments, or to break regular iambic or trochaic flow with concentrated intensity.
Example
Example in poetry:
Four consecutive stressed syllables for emphasis; "Dead drunk" followed by "stone cold"; "Strong, bold, brave, true" creating weight; Hopkins using multiple spondees for force
Additional Notes
Creates maximum emphasis through four consecutive stressed syllables. Rare in English due to natural speech patterns. Most effective when used sparingly for emphasis.
Also Known As
Dual spondee Paired stress Double strong foot Twin-accent beat Dispondee
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