lay

¹lay

noun

Definition of LAY

1

a rhythmic series of musical tones arranged to give a pleasing effect <the minstrel strummed a cheerful lay on his lute>

Synonyms air, lay, song, strain, tune, warble

Related Words descant (also discant); cadence, measure, meter, rhythm; ballad, ditty, hymn, lyric, madrigal

2

a short musical composition for the human voice often with instrumental accompaniment <she sang a short lay in dedication to her husband>

Synonyms ballad, ditty, jingle, lay, lyric, vocal

Related Words anthem, cantata, canticle, carol, chorale, hymn, noel, psalm, spiritual; dirge, lament, requiem, threnody; hallelujah, paean; aria, art song, barcarole (or barcarolle), blues, chanson, chant, chantey (or chanty or shanty), chorus, croon, descant (also discant), folk song, glee, lullaby, madrigal, motet, part-song, pop, rocker, round, roundelay, serenade, standard; drinking song, fight song; torch song; cover, medley, remix