bal|lad «BAL uhd», noun, verb.
–n.
1. a poem that tells a story. Ballads are usually in a simple verse form and tell a popular legend that is passed from one generation to another orally. »
The old man sang ballads of the clan's heroes, often to the tune of a folk song.
2. a simple song: »
a charming ballad of the north country.
3. a sentimental of romantic popular song: »
Many of the ballads of mother's day are still popular.
4. the music for a narrative ballad or folk song: »
Many of the old ballads are sung to new words.
–v.i.
to write or compose ballads.
╂[< Old French ballade < Old Pvoençal balada (originally) poem for dancing < balar to dance < Late Latin ballāre]
–bal´lad|er, noun.
Useful english dictionary. 2012.