How Do You Spell DOGGEREL?

Pronunciation: [dˈɒɡəɹə͡l] (IPA)

Doggerel is an English word used to describe a poem or a verse that is poorly written or lacking in content. It is spelled /ˈdɒɡ(ə)rəl/, with the stress on the first syllable. The word originated from the Middle English term dogerel, which means "of little value." Its spelling has evolved over time, with variations such as "dogrell," "doggrel," and "doggerell." Despite its negative connotations, doggerel can still be enjoyed for its simplistic and humorous nature.

DOGGEREL Meaning and Definition

1. Doggerel refers to a type of verse or poetry characterized by its simplicity, clumsiness, and lack of artistic beauty. It is often comical or satirical in nature and is typically written in a light-hearted, humorous manner. Doggerel poetry tends to employ irregular meter, awkward phrasing, and overly simplistic language, often lacking the refined style or elegance associated with more refined literary works.

   The term "doggerel" is derived from the Middle English word "dogerel," which means "trivial" or "worthless." In contemporary usage, it is often used to describe poems or verses that are of low quality or lacking in artistic merit. Doggerel is typically thought of as crude or unsophisticated, often associated with amateur or inexperienced poets who lack the skill or creativity to compose more sophisticated pieces.

   However, it is important to note that while doggerel is generally considered to be of lesser quality, it can also be intentionally employed as a form of parody or playfulness. In this context, the use of irregular meter and simple language may be deliberate, aiming to evoke a humorous effect or to satirize more serious or grandiose poetic conventions. Despite its perceived limitations, doggerel poetry can serve as a delightful form of entertainment, with its light-hearted and often witty nature appealing to a wide audience.

2. • A sort of loose or irregular kind of poetry.

   • A name applied to irregular burlesque poetry, as doggerel verse or rhyme; to throw to the dogs, to throw away as useless; to go to the dogs, to go to ruin.

   • See under dog.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for DOGGEREL

• soggerel
• xoggerel
• coggerel
• foggerel
• doggere
• doggerell
• doggerr
• Doogrel
• Doggral
• hoggerrel
• doggera
• dovteyel
• doggerron
• doggeron
• Deggered
• doguerels
• doguerel
• Doggril
• Daggarel

Etymology of DOGGEREL

The word "doggerel" originated from the Middle English term "dogerel" or "dogrel", which appeared in the mid-14th century. Its ultimate etymology is uncertain, but it is believed to be derived from the Middle English word "dog", meaning "a dog". The suffix "-erel" is a diminutive suffix, often used to denote something small or contemptible. It is thought that "doggerel" initially referred to poetry that was considered crude, unrefined, or of low quality, comparing it to the unpolished and insignificant nature of a dog. Over time, the term evolved to describe any kind of verse that is clumsily written, simplistic, or lacking in skillful craftsmanship.