minstrel

[ˈmɪnstrəl]

minstrel Definition

  • 1a medieval singer or musician, especially one who sang or recited lyric or heroic poetry to a musical accompaniment for the nobility
  • 2a modern entertainer who performs songs, music, or poetry, especially in a folk or popular style

Using minstrel: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "minstrel" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The minstrel played a lute and sang a ballad.

  • Example

    The king's court was entertained by a group of minstrels.

  • Example

    The festival featured a variety of minstrels and performers.

  • Example

    He is a talented minstrel who writes and performs his own songs.

minstrel Synonyms and Antonyms

Idioms Using minstrel

  • to act in a subservient or obsequious manner, especially to gain favor or approval

    Example

    He played the minstrel to his boss, always agreeing with him and never expressing his own opinions.

  • a person who performs for an audience that is not appreciative or receptive

    Example

    The comedian felt like a minstrel in the gallery, performing to a crowd that didn't seem to find him funny.

  • minstrel blood

    talent or skill in music or singing, especially inherited or innate

    Example

    She comes from a family of musicians and has minstrel blood in her veins.

Phrases with minstrel

  • a type of entertainment that originated in the US in the 19th century featuring white performers in blackface who sang and danced in a caricatured portrayal of African Americans

    Example

    Minstrel shows were widely popular in the US until the early 20th century.

  • court minstrel

    a musician or singer who performed for the nobility in a royal court

    Example

    The court minstrel played a harp and sang a song for the queen.

  • a contemporary performer who draws inspiration from traditional folk music and storytelling

    Example

    The singer-songwriter is often referred to as a modern minstrel, with his focus on acoustic guitar and lyrics that tell stories.

Origins of minstrel

from Old French 'menestrel', from Late Latin 'ministerialis', meaning 'servant'

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Summary: minstrel in Brief

The term 'minstrel' [ˈmɪnstrəl] refers to a medieval singer or musician who performed lyric or heroic poetry for the nobility, or a modern entertainer who performs songs, music, or poetry in a folk or popular style. It extends into phrases like 'minstrel show,' which caricatured African Americans, and idioms like 'play the minstrel,' meaning to act subserviently. 'Minstrel' also denotes talent or skill in music, as in 'minstrel blood.'