Meaning & Definition of word "Ballad"

Ballad

/ˈbæl.əd/

noun:

  • 1. A narrative poem, often of folk origin, that is composed in short stanzas and tells a story, typically a dramatic one.
    • Example: The old ballad recounts the tragic love story of two star-crossed lovers.
  • 2. A slow or sentimental song with a simple melody, often expressing a deep emotion.
    • Example: She sang a beautiful ballad that brought tears to everyone's eyes.
  • 3. A form of verse that is usually a narrative set to music.
    • Example: The band performed a haunting ballad that lingered in the hearts of the audience.

Etymology

From Middle English 'balade', from Old French 'ballade' meaning a dance song.

Common Phrases and Expressions

love ballad:

A ballad that expresses romantic themes or feelings.

narrative ballad:

A ballad that tells a story, often with a moral.

folk ballad:

A traditional ballad from oral tradition.

Related Words

lyric:

A poem that expresses personal feelings and thoughts, typically in a musical context.

elegy:

A mournful poem or song, especially one lamenting the dead.

ode:

A type of lyrical stanza that expresses emotion and is often addressed to a person or thing.

Slang Meanings of ballad

Meaning: A heartfelt or emotional song.

Example Sentence: That track is such a ballad, it really hits you in the feels.

Meaning: An old-fashioned or classic song.

Example Sentence: I love that old ballad from the 90s!