A limerick is a humorous five-line poem with a distinct rhythm and rhyme scheme. The first, second, and fifth lines typically have three beats and rhyme with each other, while the third and fourth lines have two beats and share a different rhyme. This structure creates a playful and often whimsical tone, making limericks popular in children's literature and light verse. The origins of limericks can be traced back to the early 19th century, with many attributing their name to the city of Limerick in Ireland. Famous poets like Edward Lear helped popularize this form through their entertaining and nonsensical verses. Limericks often feature clever wordplay and absurd situations, contributing to their enduring appeal.