Definify.com

Webster 1913 Edition


Ballad

Bal′lad

,
Noun.
[OE.
balade
, OF.
balade
, F.
ballade
, fr. Pr.
ballada
a dancing song, fr.
ballare
to dance; cf. It.
ballata
. See 2d
Ball
,
Noun.
, and
Ballet
.]
A popular kind of narrative poem, adapted for recitation or singing;
as, the
ballad
of Chevy Chase
; esp., a sentimental or romantic poem in short stanzas.

Bal′lad

,
Verb.
I.
To make or sing ballads.
[Obs.]

Bal′lad

,
Verb.
T.
To make mention of in ballads.
[Obs.]

Webster 1828 Edition


Ballad

BAL'LAD

,
Noun.
A song; originally, a solemn song of praise; but now a meaner kind of popular song.

BAL'LAD

,
Verb.
I.
To make or sing ballads.

Definition 2024


ballad

ballad

English

Noun

ballad (plural ballads)

  1. 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.
  2. 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.

Quotations

Translations

Verb

ballad (third-person singular simple present ballads, present participle ballading, simple past and past participle balladed)

  1. (obsolete) To make mention of in ballads.
  2. (intransitive) To compose or sing ballads.