noun
burden
The main or recurring idea of a speech or song.
The burden of her speech is that everyone deserves a fair chance.
Etymology
The older musical word names a drone or low accompaniment. It developed into a song’s recurring refrain, then the main idea repeatedly carried through speech or song.
More examples
- The burden of the song is a longing for home.
- Cooperation, not competition, is the burden of his remarks.
- Despite their different stories, both songs share the same burden: love endures.
Forms
burden · burdens