Rhyme-In-Time (Homophones Homonyms Multinyms Word List) (Excel Spreadsheet)

I use this list to drive a creative writing project called "Rhyme-In-Time".

It is an activity that I use to help me craft and refine song lyrics.

It is powered by a large list of word groups - 2 or more words per group - that rhyme in special ways.

Some are what I call "double rhymes".

These words rhyme phonetically (they end in similar sounds), but they also rhyme thematically (they relate as concepts).

For example, "nameless" and "shameless" comes to mind.

"Ruthless", "couthless", and "toothless" also comes to mind.

Some of the words are "homophones" - they sound the same, but are spelled differently, and have different meanings that can still be easily connected.

For example, "so", "sew", and "sow".

When I need a clever lyric, and my regular dictionary and rhyming dictionary are not doing the job, I go to "Rhyme-In-Time".

It never fails me.

Let's say I am writing dialogue for a play, and the scene is a tense school board meeting.

I am giving the first public comment before the official meeting starts, and I want to let the public know that there is an issue with a board member that will soon be brought to light - but I'm not that light.

I'm just tryin' to let you know what's comin' - like a soothsayer (or a truthsayer).

So I grab my "nameless" and "shameless" pair ...

Roll scene ...

"Madame chairman, our distinguished board, and guests ... we have a problem. A problem of both protocol and practice perpetrated by one entrusted to uphold the public's faith. I am not here to expose that individual. They shall remain nameless tonight, but will not remain shameless for long."

Or, picture this one ... I am trying to relate how Black people have performed a legacy of back-breaking (often involuntary) work ... and how it has allowed us to recognize that opportunities are often disguised as work.

So I break 'em off with a "so - sew - sow" verse ...

"had to cut and mow
had to stitch and sew
for Mr. So-and-So
so we could reap and sow"

Now, these groups don't always have to be used as rhymes, don't have to be used in any particular order, and multiple groups can be used together.

Let's try "vain" and "vein" with "reign", "sane", and "feign" ...

How about ...

"When I feign sane
confusion reigns
vanity and foolish pride
run through my veins."

OK - that still rhymes, but note how I used "vain" as "vanity" to maintain my rhythm and flow.

That's how I use "Rhyme-In-Time".

Check out these other word lists ...

Re'sume' Verbs Word List (Excel Spreadsheet)
Character Adjectives Word List (Excel Spreadsheet)

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