noun
minstrel
MIN-strul/ˈmɪnstrəl/
A performer of songs, music, or poetry in a traditional setting.
The minstrel sings an old ballad at the village festival.
Etymology
Old French menestrel could mean both a servant and an entertainer: musicians and jesters held court positions. English later narrowed the word to the historical figure of a medieval singer-musician.
In context
the minstrel entered timidly with his harp in the hope that he might be allowed to play
More examples
- A traveling minstrel entertained the household with songs and stories.
- Two minstrels play their harps beside the castle gate.
- In the poem, a minstrel recites verses about a fallen king.
Forms
minstrel · minstrels
Similar words
- bard
- Emphasizes poetry and storytelling rather than instrumental musical performance.
- troubadour
- Specifically a medieval lyric poet and singer from southern France.
- musician
- Covers music performers generally, without implying a traditional setting.