Which meter consists of an unstressed syllable followed by a stressed syllable?

Iambic meter is characterized by its rhythmic pattern of an unstressed syllable followed by a stressed syllable. This structure creates a natural flow in poetry and has been widely used in English verse. The iamb (the unit of measurement in iambic meter) embodies this pattern effectively, allowing poets to maintain a consistent rhythm that often reflects the natural cadence of speech. In contrast to other meters, such as trochaic (stressed followed by unstressed), anapestic (two unstressed followed by one stressed), and dactylic (one stressed followed by two unstressed), iambic meter stands out for its simplicity and versatility, making it one of the most popular choices among poets throughout history. This meter not only contributes to the musicality of a poem but also influences its emotional tone, enhancing the overall impact on the reader.