1. a type of lyric poem consisting of a long verse followed by a shorter one
Usage: literary
2. the third section of a Pindaric ode, following the strophe and antistrophe
Usage: literary; classical poetry

Examples

• The poet structured his work as an epode, with each long stanza followed by a brief refrain.
• Ancient Greek choruses would sing the epode after completing the strophe and antistrophe.
• Horace was famous for his epodes, which often featured satirical themes.
• The epode provided a rhythmic contrast to the longer verses that preceded it.
• Students of classical literature must understand the structure of the epode in Greek drama.
• The final epode brought the ode to a contemplative close.