Definition of ballad

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< Ball, Lucille

ballade >

bal·lad    (bld) KEY 

NOUN:

1. 1. A narrative poem, often of folk origin and intended to be sung, consisting of simple stanzas and usually having a refrain.
   2. The music for such a poem.
2. A popular song especially of a romantic or sentimental nature.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Middle English balade, poem or song in stanza form, from Old French ballade, from Old Provençal balada, song sung while dancing, from balar, to dance, from Late Latin ballre, to dance ; see ball²

OTHER FORMS:
bal·ladic  (b-ldk, b-) KEY (Adjective)