Definition of Haiku
Quick Meaning of Haiku
A short Japanese poem with three lines (5-7-5 syllables) that captures a moment in nature or evokes emotion through minimal words.
Detailed Definition of Haiku
A traditional Japanese poetic form consisting of three lines with a syllable pattern of 5-7-5, typically focused on nature and evoking emotional depth through simplicity and seasonal reference.
How to Pronounce Haiku
Stress pattern: Oo (2-syllable word).
Tip: HI-koo. Stress the first syllable. Two syllables: HI-koo. Both vowels are pronounced distinctly.
Watch out: Learners sometimes say 'hi-AH-koo' (three syllables) or 'HACK-oo'. Correct: HI-koo (two syllables).
Origin and Etymology of Haiku
From Japanese 'haiku' (high poem, light verse), originally called 'haikai renga' (playful linked verse). Derived from 'hai' (light, playful) and 'ku' (verse, poem).
How to Use Haiku in a Sentence
Each example shows “haiku” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“Basho's haiku about the frog jumping into a pond is one of literature's most famous moments of sudden insight.”
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“The haiku captures autumn's melancholy through precise imagery and silence.”
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“Her haiku collection uses seasonal shifts to evoke the passage of a lifetime.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Haiku
Common Synonyms for Haiku
Smart Synonyms for Haiku — When to Use Each
- poem
- General term for poetic work
- verse
- Poetry in general; haiku is a particular verse
- stanza
- Section of a poem; haiku itself is typically
Antonyms of Haiku
Common Collocations with Haiku
These phrases pair with “haiku” in everyday English:
- traditional haiku
- modern haiku
- seasonal haiku
- haiku poem
- haiku collection
Common Mistakes When Using Haiku
Even fluent speakers slip up with “haiku”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: The haiku rhymed couplets perfectly.
- ✓ Correct: Haiku does not rely on rhyme; it uses imagery and seasonal reference.
- Why: Haiku's aesthetic is based on imagery, simplicity, and suggestion, not rhyme scheme. Rhymed verse is not characteristic of haiku tradition.
- ✗ Wrong: The haiku told a complete narrative story.
- ✓ Correct: The haiku captured a single moment or image evoking insight.
- Why: Haiku is about a moment or image evoking emotion or insight, not narrative. Economy of language and depth over story distinguish it.
- ✗ Wrong: The haiku had no connection to nature or seasons.
- ✓ Correct: Traditional haiku includes a seasonal reference ('kigo') and often features nature.
- Why: Nature and seasonal awareness are fundamental to haiku tradition. A poem without these elements, while brief, is not truly haiku.
Other Forms of Haiku
Frequently Asked Questions About Haiku
What is the meaning of "Haiku"?
A short Japanese poem with three lines (5-7-5 syllables) that captures a moment in nature or evokes emotion through minimal words.
How do you pronounce "Haiku"?
The IPA is /ˈhaɪ.kuː/. HI-koo. Stress the first syllable. Two syllables: HI-koo. Both vowels are pronounced distinctly.
What part of speech is "Haiku"?
"Haiku" is a noun at C2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Haiku"?
Common synonyms include poem, verse, stanza.
How do you use "Haiku" in a sentence?
For example: "Basho's haiku about the frog jumping into a pond is one of literature's most famous moments of sudden insight."