Song n.
1. That which is sung or uttered with musical modulations of the voice, whether of a human being or of a bird, insect, etc. “That most ethereal of all sounds, the song of crickets.”
2. A lyrical poem adapted to vocal music; a ballad.
3. More generally, any poetical strain; a poem.
The bard that first adorned our native tongue
Tuned to his British lyre this ancient song. --Dryden.
4. Poetical composition; poetry; verse.
This subject for heroic song. --Milton.
5. An object of derision; a laughingstock.
And now am I their song, yea, I am their byword. --Job xxx. 9.
6. A trifle; an insignificant sum of money; as, he bought it for a song. “The soldier's pay is a song.”
Old song, a trifle; nothing of value. “I do not intend to be thus put off with an old song.” --Dr. H. More.
Song bird Zool., any singing bird; one of the Oscines.
Song sparrow Zool., a very common North American sparrow (Melospiza fasciata, or Melospiza melodia) noted for the sweetness of its song in early spring. Its breast is covered with dusky brown streaks which form a blotch in the center.
Song thrush Zool., a common European thrush (Turdus musicus), noted for its melodius song; -- called also mavis, throstle, and thrasher.
Syn: -- Sonnet; ballad; canticle; carol; canzonet; ditty; hymn; descant; lay; strain; poesy; verse.
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