3. A short division of any composition. Specifically: — (a) A stanza; a stave; as, a hymn of four verses.
Note: Although this use of verse is common, it is objectionable, because not always distinguishable from the stricter use in the sense of a line. (b) (Script.) One of the short divisions of the chapters in the Old and New Testaments.
Note: The author of the division of the Old Testament into verses is not ascertained. The New Testament was divided into verses by Robert Stephens [or Estienne], a French printer. This arrangement appeared for the first time in an edition printed at Geneva, in 1551. (c) (Mus.) A portion of an anthem to be performed by a single voice to each part.
4. A piece of poetry. "This verse be thine." Pope. Blank verse, poetry in which the lines do not end in rhymes. — Heroic verse. See under Heroic.
VERSE
Verse, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Versed; p. pr. & vb. n. Versing.]
Defn: To tell in verse, or poetry. [Obs.]
Playing on pipes of corn and versing love. Shak.
VERSE
Verse, v. i.
Defn: To make verses; to versify. [Obs.]
It is not rhyming and versing that maketh a poet. Sir P. Sidney.
VERSED Versed, a. Etym: [Cf. F. versé, L. versatus, p. p. of versari to turn about frequently, to turn over, to be engaged in a thing, passive of versare. See Versant, a.]
Defn: Acquainted or familiar, as the result of experience, study, practice, etc.; skilled; practiced. Deep versed in books and shallow in himself. Milton. Opinions . . . derived from studying the Scriptures, wherein he was versed beyond any person of his age. Southey. These men were versed in the details of business. Macaulay.