ballad

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Contents

English [edit]

Etymology [edit]

From French ballade, from Old Provençal ballada (poem for a dance), from Late Latin ballare.

Pronunciation [edit]

  • IPA: /ˈbæləd/
  • (file)

Noun [edit]

ballad (plural ballads)

  1. A kind of narrative poem, adapted for recitation or singing; especially, a sentimental or romantic poem in short stanzas.
    The poet composed a ballad praising the heroic exploits of the fallen commander.
  2. A slow romantic pop song.
    On Friday nights, the roller rink had a time-block called "Lovers' Lap" when they played nothing but ballads on the overhead speakers.

Quotations [edit]

Translations [edit]

Verb [edit]

ballad (third-person singular simple present ballads, present participle ballading, simple past and past participle balladed)

  1. (obsolete) To make mention of in ballads.
  2. (intransitive) To compose or sing ballads.