Meaning & Definition of word "Folklore"
Folklore
/ˈfoʊkˌlɔːr/
noun:
- 1. The traditional beliefs, customs, and stories of a community, passed through the generations by word of mouth.
- Example: The folklore of the region includes many tales of mythical creatures.
- 2. An often traditional story or legend that reflects the cultural practices and history of a group.
- Example: Many children grow up listening to the folklore of their ancestors.
- 3. The study or appreciation of folklore and traditional cultural practices.
- Example: Her research focuses on the folklore of Eastern European communities.
- 4. A set of beliefs or traditions associated with a particular culture or social group.
- Example: The festival celebrates the folklore of the indigenous people.
Etymology
●The term 'folklore' was coined in the 19th century, combining 'folk' (people) with 'lore' (knowledge).
Common Phrases and Expressions
folklore studies:
The academic examination of cultural traditions and stories.
urban folklore:
Modern myths, legends, or stories that circulate within a community.
folklore festival:
A public event celebrating traditional cultural practices.
Related Words
mythology:
A collection of myths, especially one belonging to a particular religious or cultural tradition.
legend:
A traditional story sometimes popularly regarded as historical but unauthenticated.
Slang Meanings of folklore
Meaning: Tall tale
● Example Sentence: He told a tall tale about catching a fish the size of a car, which sounded like folklore to me.
Meaning: Old wives' tale
● Example Sentence: The story he shared about the fountain of youth was just an old wives' tale, part of local folklore.