n. 1. a. A single metrical line in a poetic composition; one line of poetry. b. A division of a metrical composition, such as a stanza of a poem or hymn. c. A poem. 2. Metrical or rhymed composition as distinct from prose; poetry. 3. a. The art or work of a poet. b. A group of poems: read a book of satirical verse. 4. Metrical writing that lacks depth or artistic merit. 5. A particular type of metrical composition, such as blank verse or free verse. 6. One of the numbered subdivisions of a chapter in the Bible. tr. & intr.v. versed, vers·ing, vers·es To versify or engage in versifying. [Middle English vers, from Old English fers and from Old French vers, both from Latin versus, from past participle of vertere, to turn; see wer-2 in the Appendix of Indo-European roots.] |
The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition copyright ©2022 by HarperCollins Publishers. All rights reserved.
tr.v. versed, vers·ing, vers·es To familiarize by study or experience: He versed himself in philosophy. [Latin versāre; see VERSATILE.] |
The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition copyright ©2022 by HarperCollins Publishers. All rights reserved.
tr.v. versed, vers·ing, vers·es Slang To play against (an opponent) in a competition. |
The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition copyright ©2022 by HarperCollins Publishers. All rights reserved.