Definition of prose

The word "prose" originated during the medieval period in Europe, specifically in French literature around the 13th century. The term comes from the Old French word "prosa" or "prose style," which itself derives from the Latin word "prosaica" meaning "common speech" or "simple, straightforward language." Before the use of the term "prose," medieval writers mainly used poetry to convey stories, religious texts, and historical narratives. However, as the demand for more practical and straightforward texts grew, writers began experimenting with a new style of writing that focused on clear, direct communication. The term "prose" was initially used to describe this new style, which emphasized clarity, coherence, and logical structure over the poetic devices and ornate language found in traditional poetry. Additionally, prose writing often featured a variety of elements, such as dialogue, description, and narrative, that were not commonly found in poetry. As prose writing gained popularity, it became an increasingly important form of literary expression, particularly in fields like philosophy, law, economics, and science. Today, prose continues to be the dominant form of written communication in most cultures around the world, from articles and reports to novels and essays.