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)

serenaded, serenading.

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 Word Forms

• 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

And it’s not just that he’s a terrible hotel manager or that I’d rather hear the sounds of Saxon’s blender than be serenaded by him.

From Los Angeles Times

But the man serenading her new USC teammates and coaches over dinner in the back room of their swanky Paris restaurant had just brought out an extra microphone.

From Los Angeles Times

It wasn’t what the broadcaster was saying that was as remarkable as what he was singing … and who he was serenading.

From Los Angeles Times

Some days, they were serenaded by a neighbor who played a portable organ.

From Los Angeles Times

Host Trevor Noah confirmed at the top of the show that Gaga and Mars would be serenading the audience, but conveniently left out what they’d be singing.

From Salon