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 catchy sound, making limericks enjoyable to read and recite. Limericks often feature whimsical or absurd themes, frequently involving characters or situations that are amusing or nonsensical. They are named after the city of Limerick in Ireland, although their exact origins are unclear. Famous poets like Edward Lear popularized limericks in the 19th century, contributing to their lasting appeal.