Editor's Corner

On the tenth day of English,

My true love did me wrong,

He forgot the pipers and sent me

Ten new ways to say “song.”

1. barcarole: a work song with a beat that alternates between strong and weak to suggest the rhythm of rowing a boat

2. canticle: a song based on scripture and performed during a church service

3. chantey/chanty/shanty: a rhythmic sailors’ work song

4. descant: a melody sung as a counterpoint to another melody

5. madrigal: a polyphonic part-song originating in the 14th century that has parts for three or more voices and is marked by the use of a secular text and a freely imitative style and counterpoint and that in its later development especially in the 16th and 17th centuries is often marked by a distinct melody in the upper voice and by being designed for accompaniment by strings that either double or replace one or more of the voice parts — compare motet [KC
– This definition is from Merriam-Webster.]

6. motet: a choral composition, usually unaccompanied, based on a sacred text

7. paean: a hymn or song of praise, thanks, or triumph

8. round: a song in which multiple singers sing the same melody and lyrics

9. roundelay: a simple song that includes a refrain

10. work song: a song structured to aid in the performance of a rhythmic group task

For an even longer list of different ways to say song, see Daily Writing Tips.

Kara Church

Technical Editor, Advisory

619-542-6773 | Ext: 766773

Symitar Documentation Services

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