Emily Dickinson Lexicon

PROS'O-DY, n. [Fr. prosodie; L. prosodia; Gr. προσωδια; προς and ωδη, an ode.]

That part of grammar which treats of the quantity of syllables, of accent, and of the laws of versification. It includes also the art of adjusting the accent and metrical arrangements of syllables in compositions for the lyre.