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 more examples

   Of all varieties of poetry, the Ballad, in the form which it affects among us, in distinction to other countries, is, perhaps, one of the most attractive.

   1882, John Ashton, “Origin of Ballads”, in John Skelton, A Ballade of the Scottysshe Kynge. […], London: Elliot Stock, […], →OCLC, page 1

   A wandering minstrel I — / A thing of shreds and patches, / Of ballads, songs and snatches, / And dreamy lullaby!

   1885, Gilbert and Sullivan, The Mikado, act 1

2. A slow romantic song.

   He was playing the guitar and singing a ballad to his girlfriend while she was playing the drums.

   1 more example

   On Friday nights, the roller rink had a time-block called "Lovers' Lap" when they played nothing but ballads on the overhead speakers.

present singular third person ballads · participle present ballading · participle past balladed · past balladed

1. obsoleteTo make mention of in ballads.
2. intransitiveTo compose or sing ballads.