Perfect rhymes share the same vowel sound and consonant(s) following that vowel. For instance, “sun,” “run,” and “fun” share the vowel // and the final consonant /n/. Near rhymes, also known as slant rhymes or half rhymes, share some, but not all, of these sounds. Examples include “stun” and “spun,” which share the final consonant but differ in the vowel sound. Eye rhymes, such as “love” and “move,” appear to rhyme based on spelling, but the pronunciations differ.
The ability to identify and utilize rhyme is a fundamental aspect of language development and has played a significant role in poetry, music, and mnemonic devices across cultures and throughout history. From ancient oral traditions to modern songwriting, rhyme enhances memorability and creates a sense of musicality and rhythm. Its presence can increase engagement and provide a structural framework for artistic expression.