Which meter is the most commonly used in poetry?

Iambic pentameter is considered the most commonly used meter in English poetry, particularly because it closely mirrors the natural rhythms of spoken English. It consists of five feet per line, with each foot comprising an unstressed syllable followed by a stressed syllable, creating a da-DUM rhythm. This meter has been favored by many poets, including William Shakespeare, which has helped solidify its prevalence in English literature. Its adaptability allows for a variety of themes and styles, making it versatile for both dramatic and narrative poetry.

In contrast, the other meters mentioned, such as trochaic, anapestic, and dactylic, are used less frequently in comparison to iambic pentameter. Each of them has its unique rhythmic patterns, but none have achieved the same level of widespread popularity or application as iambic pentameter in classic and modern poetry.