Troubadour: meaning, definitions and examples

Primarily used for medieval lyric poets who composed and performed songs of chivalry and love, often at courts or for aristocratic audiences.

• The troubadour sang a ballad of unrequited love at the royal banquet

Commonly used for medieval musicians who traveled from place to place, entertaining audiences with songs, music, and stories. Minstrels performed for both noble and common folk.

• The minstrel's lively tunes brought joy to the market square

This term is often used for poets, especially those who compose and recite epic or heroic poetry. It can also refer to the legendary figures in Celtic cultures, such as the famous Bard of Avon, William Shakespeare.

• The bard recited tales of grand adventures and heroic deeds to the gathered villagers

Used for anyone who writes poetry, regardless of the time period or specific style. Modern poets often write about a wide range of subjects, including personal experiences and social issues.

• The poet's latest collection explores themes of love, loss, and identity

Used to describe medieval poets and musicians who performed songs of chivalry and love. It can also refer to modern musicians who travel and perform songs, often with poetic lyrics.

• The medieval troubadour sang tales of knights and romance in the court.
• He considers himself a modern-day troubadour, traveling from town to town with his guitar.

Specifically denotes someone who writes, composes, and sings their own songs, often with a focus on the lyrics and personal expression.

• She is an acclaimed singer-songwriter known for her heartfelt lyrics.
• He started his career as a singer-songwriter, performing songs he wrote about his life experiences.

Refers to anyone who plays a musical instrument or is musically talented, regardless of whether they compose music or perform it.

• The musician played a beautiful piano piece that moved the audience.
• He became a professional musician after years of rigorous practice.

Refers to someone who creates art in various forms like painting, sculpting, drawing, and other visual arts. Can also refer to someone who performs in other creative fields, including music.

• She is a renowned artist known for her abstract paintings.
• As an artist, he enjoys both painting and composing music.