ballad etymology

Etymology

The word "ballad" is derived from the Old French word "ballade," which in turn comes from the Latin word "ballata," meaning "to dance." The term "ballade" originally referred to a type of medieval song that was typically accompanied by dancing, similar to a modern ballad.

Meaning

A ballad is a form of narrative poetry that tells a story or event in a verse form, often with a refrain or chorus. Ballads are typically sung or recited and often have a simple, repetitive structure. They can range in subject matter from love and romance to history and legend.

Origin

The origins of ballads are unclear, but they are believed to have emerged in Europe during the Middle Ages. Some of the earliest known ballads date back to the 13th and 14th centuries. They were often passed down orally from one generation to the next, changing and evolving over time.

Ballads were originally associated with the lower classes, as they were often sung by peasants, laborers, and soldiers. However, over time, ballads became more popular with the upper classes as well. They were often used to commemorate important events, such as battles or coronations, and were even set to music by famous composers.

Today, ballads continue to be written and performed, both as traditional folk songs and as more contemporary compositions. They have had a significant influence on other forms of literature, music, and art.

ballad relate terms

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    Etymology of Song The word song has Indo European origins Proto Indo European PIE

  • Edda

    Etymology Old Norse Edda Meaning Great grandmother or ancestress poetic term