folk tale

or folk·tale

[ fohk teyl ]

noun

1. a tale or legend originating and traditional among a people or folk, especially one forming part of the oral tradition of the common people.
2. any belief or story passed on traditionally, especially one considered to be false or based on superstition.

folk tale

noun

1. a tale or legend originating among a people and typically becoming part of an oral tradition

Word History and Origins

Origin of folk tale¹

First recorded in 1890–95

Example Sentences

“I think there’s the folk tales, the storytelling aspect that you see in Western African music that’s also a very big part of country music,” he said.

From Los Angeles Times

Historical accounts and later folk tales suggest white horses were valued for sacrifices, for example.

From Science Magazine

Sweet July’s first title, forthcoming in January, will be Roselle Lim’s Chinese folk tale “Celestial Banquet.”

From Los Angeles Times

Silvia learns about her heritage through the folk tales her aunt Ena tells her, and becomes fascinated with the mysterious woman who lives in the penthouse apartment.

From New York Times

Lately, she had been telling friends that understanding the current border crisis reminded her of an old folk tale about a group of blind men encountering an elephant.

From New York Times