Volkslied

folk song

noun FOLKS-leet Rare

Origin: from Volk (people) + Lied (song)

Usage Note

Volkslied is a traditional folk song handed down orally, contrasted with the art song or Kunstlied. The term was coined in the 18th century by Herder.

Examples

"Beim Wandern sangen sie alte Volkslieder."

Natural Translation

While hiking they sang old folk songs.

Literal Translation

During-the hiking sang they old folk-songs.

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