ballad
UK: ˈbæləd | US: ˈbæləd
n. a narrative poem or song, often romantic or sentimental in nature
n. a slow, sentimental popular song, typically about love
ballad = ball<dance> + ad<noun suffix>
- ball (from Old French baler "to dance," ultimately from Late Latin ballare "to dance")
- ad (a suffix forming nouns, often indicating a result or action)
Etymology Origin:
The word ballad traces back to medieval French and Latin roots tied to dance. Originally, it referred to a song sung while dancing (ballare meaning "to dance"). Over time, its meaning shifted from dance-associated songs to narrative poems or sentimental songs, reflecting the evolution of musical and poetic traditions in Europe. The connection to dance faded, but the lyrical and storytelling aspects remained central.
The folk singer performed a haunting ballad about lost love.
She wrote a ballad inspired by an ancient legend.
The album features both upbeat tracks and slow ballads.
Medieval ballads often told stories of knights and adventure.
His voice was perfect for singing emotional ballads.