Hemistich
/ˈhemistɪk/
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Poetry Structure
A hemistich can indicate a pause or a break within a verse, similar to a comma or period in sentences. 
In reciting, I paused at each hemistich, giving the verse a rhythmic feel.
Pro Tip 2/3Dramatic Effect
Poets use hemistichs to create suspense or highlight a point in their poetry. 
The poet emphasized the climax by isolating it into its own hemistich.
Pro Tip 3/3Not Always Equal
Hemistichs don't have to be equal in length; they can vary to achieve different poetic effects. 
The uneven hemistichs in the poem mirrored the turmoil of the sea it described.