CultureJuly 10, 2026

balladeer

/ˌbæləˈdɪər/

Definition

A singer or performer, especially one who specializes in telling stories through folk songs or ballads.

Etymology

The word stems from the French 'ballade,' meaning a narrative poem or song, combined with the suffix '-eer,' which denotes a person associated with a particular activity. It entered English in the 18th century to describe those who sang or composed popular, often sentimental, narrative songs.

In the news

The article uses the term to describe Woody Guthrie, highlighting his role as an American folk musician who blended his storytelling songs with Jewish cultural influences. This frames him not just as a musician, but as a narrative artist bridging two distinct traditions.

Lights, Camera, Culture! Why You Can’t Miss This Year’s Boulder Jewish Film Festival

Read the full article ↗

Boulder Jewish News

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