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Carol: meaning, definitions and examples

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carol

 

[ˈkɛrəl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

festive song

A carol is a type of song that is often sung during festive seasons, particularly at Christmas. These songs are meant to celebrate the joy and spirit of the season. Carols can be both sacred and secular in nature. They are typically performed in groups and are characterized by their joyful melodies and lyrics that convey themes of love, joy, and goodwill.

Synonyms

chant, hymn, song.

Examples of usage

  • We sang 'Silent Night' as a Christmas carol.
  • Children went door to door, sharing carols with neighbors.
  • The church choir performed a beautiful carol during the service.
Context #2 | Verb

sing joyfully

To carol means to sing songs of joy or praise, frequently during festive occasions. This action is commonly associated with Christmas, where groups gather to sing traditional songs in celebration. Caroling can take place in various settings, including homes, streets, and events, aiming to spread cheer and camaraderie.

Synonyms

chant, rejoice, sing.

Examples of usage

  • We plan to carol around the neighborhood next week.
  • They caroled beautifully, bringing smiles to everyone.
  • Many families enjoy caroling together during the holidays.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The word 'carol' comes from the French term 'caroler,' which means to dance around in a circle while singing.
  • Carol singing was a festive way of celebrating in medieval times, often taking place in the streets during celebrations.
  • In the past, singing carols was a way to spread goodwill and cheer, especially during winter festivities.

Cultural Traditions

  • In many Western cultures, singing carols is a beloved holiday tradition, particularly during Christmas time.
  • Many famous carols, like 'Silent Night' and 'Jingle Bells,' have origins in different countries and reflect local customs and stories.
  • Some carols have a history of being sung in community gatherings, creating a sense of togetherness and joy.

Literature

  • Charles Dickens' 'A Christmas Carol' revitalized the tradition of caroling in the 19th century and emphasized the importance of charity and goodwill.
  • The structure of many carols often includes repetitive and simple lyrics, making them easy to sing and remember.
  • Carols often tell a story or convey a message, enhancing their emotional and cultural significance.

Music Theory

  • Carols are typically written in major keys, resulting in a bright and uplifting sound that makes people feel happy.
  • Many carols have catchy melodies that are easy to sing along to, which contributes to their popularity at celebrations.
  • In music, carols are often arranged for various instruments, allowing for diverse performances from choirs to soloists.

Pop Culture

  • Modern films and commercials frequently feature carols to evoke feelings of nostalgia and happiness during the holiday season.
  • Various artists across different genres have recorded their renditions of classic carols, showcasing their enduring appeal.
  • Television specials often highlight carol singing as a central theme during the holiday season, bringing families together.

Translations

Translations of the word "carol" in other languages:

🇵🇹 cântico

🇮🇳 गाना

🇩🇪 Karol

🇮🇩 lagu

🇺🇦 пісня

🇵🇱 kolęda

🇯🇵 キャロル

🇫🇷 chant

🇪🇸 canción

🇹🇷 şarkı

🇰🇷 캐롤

🇸🇦 ترنيمة

🇨🇿 koleda

🇸🇰 koleda

🇨🇳 圣歌

🇸🇮 pesem

🇮🇸 söngur

🇰🇿 ән

🇬🇪 გალობა

🇦🇿 mahnı

🇲🇽 canción

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,570, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.