ballad
Definition from Wiktionary, the free dictionary
Contents |
English [edit]
Etymology [edit]
From French ballade, from Old Provençal ballada (“poem for a dance”), from Late Latin ballare.
Pronunciation [edit]
Noun [edit]
ballad (plural ballads)
- 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.
- 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]
- 1885, Gilbert & Sullivan, The Mikado
- A wandering minstrel I —
- A thing of shreds and patches,
- Of ballads, songs and snatches,
Translations [edit]
narrative poem
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slow romantic pop song
Verb [edit]
ballad (third-person singular simple present ballads, present participle ballading, simple past and past participle balladed)
- (obsolete) To make mention of in ballads.
- (intransitive) To compose or sing ballads.
