serenade

[ ser-uh-neyd ]

noun

1. a complimentary performance of vocal or instrumental music in the open air at night, as by a lover under the window of his lady.
2. a piece of music suitable for such performance.
3. serenata ( def 2 ).

verb (used with or without object)

, ser·e·nad·ed, ser·e·nad·ing.

1. to entertain with or perform a serenade.

serenade

/ ˌsɛrɪˈneɪd /

noun

1. a piece of music appropriate to the evening, characteristically played outside the house of a woman
2. a piece of music indicative or suggestive of this
3. an extended composition in several movements similar to the modern suite or divertimento

verb

1. tr to play a serenade for (someone)
2. intr to play a serenade

Derived Forms

• ˌsereˈnader, noun

Other Words From

• sere·nader noun
• unser·e·naded adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of serenade¹

1640–50; < French sérénade < Italian serenata; serenata

Word History and Origins

Origin of serenade¹

C17: from French sérénade, from Italian serenata, from sereno peaceful, from Latin serēnus calm; also influenced in meaning by Italian sera evening, from Latin sērus late

Example Sentences

But he made it to the top eventually, where the band was waiting to serenade him for his toughness, a small token in the moment to recognize changes that, for Pregnon, had been many months in the making.

From Los Angeles Times

It was the same day his father recorded his hit “Donkey Serenade,” which appeared in the 1937 film musical “The Firefly,” co-starring the elder Jones, according to Jones’ website.

From Los Angeles Times

By day, birdsong is as omnipresent as Muzak at a mall; frogs serenade the night.

From Los Angeles Times

It was a sleepover staple as well as a moment of hope for countless Gen-Z girls: During the pop idol’s concerts, he would invite a lucky fan up during the song for a serenade.

From Los Angeles Times

By day, birdsong is as omnipresent as Muzak at a mall; frogs serenade the night.

From Los Angeles Times