Lullaby: meaning, definitions and examples
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lullaby
[ ˈlʌləˌbaɪ ]
musical term
A lullaby is a soothing song, often sung to children or infants, intended to lull them to sleep. These melodic compositions can feature gentle rhythms and soft lyrics, creating a calming atmosphere. Traditionally, lullabies are passed down through generations and may vary widely in different cultures. They are usually characterized by a simple structure and repetitive phrases, making them easy to remember and sing.
Synonyms
berceuse, cradle song, sleep song
Examples of usage
- She sang a lullaby to her baby.
- The lullaby drifted through the nursery.
- He fell asleep to the sound of a lullaby.
Translations
Translations of the word "lullaby" in other languages:
🇵🇹 canção de ninar
🇮🇳 लोरी
🇩🇪 Wiegenlied
🇮🇩 lagu nina bobo
🇺🇦 колискова
🇵🇱 kołysanka
🇯🇵 子守唄
🇫🇷 berceuse
🇪🇸 canción de cuna
🇹🇷 ninni
🇰🇷 자장가
🇸🇦 أغنية مهدئة
🇨🇿 uspávanka
🇸🇰 uspávanka
🇨🇳 摇篮曲
🇸🇮 uspavanka
🇮🇸 vögguvísur
🇰🇿 бесік жыры
🇬🇪 სიცოცხლის სიმღერა
🇦🇿 beşiyin mahnısı
🇲🇽 canción de cuna
Etymology
The word 'lullaby' is thought to originate from the early 16th century, combining elements from Middle English and its earlier forms. The term likely stems from the phrase 'lull' meaning to calm or soothe, coupled with 'by' which refers to a gentle action, as in 'to sing by.' Traditionally, lullabies were used as a means of comforting infants and children, a practice that transcends cultures. Various languages feature similar terms — for instance, 'cradle song' in English, which reflects the comforting intention behind such music. Over centuries, lullabies have been preserved in folk traditions, serving as emotional links in families and communities, symbolizing love, care, and the universal wish for safety during sleep.