ballad
noun
- medieval poetic and lyrical-musical form
Wiktionary
Pronunciation: /ˈbæləd/ / /ˈbælɪt/
noun
Etymology: From French ballade, from Old Occitan ballada (“poem for a dance”), from Late Latin ballare. Doublet of balada and ballade.
- 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.”
“Of all varieties of poetry, the Ballad, in the form which it affects among us, in distinction to other countries, is, perhaps, one of the most attractive.”
- A slow romantic song.
“On Friday nights, the roller rink had a time-block called "Lovers' Lap" when they played nothing but ballads on the overhead speakers.”
“He was playing the guitar and singing a ballad to his girlfriend while she was playing the drums.”
verb
Etymology: From French ballade, from Old Occitan ballada (“poem for a dance”), from Late Latin ballare. Doublet of balada and ballade.
- To make mention of in ballads.
- To compose or sing ballads.