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n. 1. a. A narrative poem, often of folk origin and intended to be sung, consisting of simple stanzas and usually having a refrain. b. The music for such a poem. 2. A popular song especially of a romantic or sentimental nature. [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 ballāre, to dance; see BALL2.] bal·ladic (bə-lădĭk, bă-) adj. |
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