balladist

[ bal-uh-dist ]

noun

1. a person who writes, composes, or sings ballads.

Word History and Origins

Origin of balladist¹

First recorded in 1855–60; ballad + -ist

Example Sentences

Gradually we find the public attention dropping away from these juggling feats performed with stale form, and turning to what may be called the new balladist—the street singer who is content to doggerelize and make strident a once noble form.

From Project Gutenberg

More of More Hall was nothing at all For a balladist to brag on, Compared with our Knight of the Watering Pot— If he'll slay our River Dragon!

From Project Gutenberg

I heard a humorous balladist not long since," the novelist recorded, "a minstrel with wool on his head, and an ultra Ethiopian complexion, who performed a negro ballad that I confess moistened these spectacles in a most unexpected manner.

From Project Gutenberg

So far as we are aware, only one balladist has found any genuine inspiration in it.

From Project Gutenberg

Next perhaps to Rossetti’s reputation as a writer of sonnets stands his reputation as a balladist; and it may be questioned whether the order ought not to be reversed.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• artist
• author
• dramatist
• lyricist
• writer