What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
gleeman
Example
The gleeman played a lively tune on his lute, while the crowd clapped along. [gleeman: noun]
Example
The young boy was fascinated by the gleeman's stories of knights and dragons. [gleeman's: possessive noun]
troubadour
Example
The troubadour sang a beautiful ballad about a knight who fell in love with a princess. [troubadour: noun]
Example
The troubadour's poetry was admired by many nobles in the court of King Richard. [troubadour's: possessive noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Troubadour is more commonly used than gleeman in modern language, especially in the context of medieval literature and music. Gleeman is a less common term that is more likely to be encountered in historical or fantasy novels.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between gleeman and troubadour?
Both gleeman and troubadour are associated with a formal and courtly tone, but troubadour is more commonly used in academic and literary contexts, while gleeman is more casual and informal.