What is a limerick poem?

A limerick is a five-line poem that is meant to be funny, nonsensical or silly. The first, second and fifth lines have the same number of syllabus and rhyme at the last words, while the third and fourth lines should mirror each other in syllables and rhyme.

Limerick history began in the 11th century. Researchers believe the form started in France before coming to England. Literary pieces with limericks include as William Shakespeare's "Othello," "King Lear" and "The Tempest," as well as the children's book "Mother Goose's Melodies" written in 1776.

Traditionally limericks begin with the phrase "There once was a..." or "There was a..."