folk song

American  

noun

1. a song originating among the people of a country or area, passed by oral tradition from one singer or generation to the next, often existing in several versions, and marked generally by simple, modal melody and stanzaic, narrative verse.

2. a song of similar character written by a known composer.

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folk song British  

noun

1. a song of which the music and text have been handed down by oral tradition among the common people

2. a modern song which employs or reflects the folk idiom

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Etymology

Origin of folk song

First recorded in 1865–70

Example Sentences

While some members gravitate toward the album’s first track, “Body to Body,” which includes snippets of the traditional Korean folk song “Arirang” in it,” the more romantic “Swim” is pushed forward.

From Salon

It was a striking prelude to "Body to Body", the album's first full track, interwoven with Korea's most iconic folk song and the album's namesake, Arirang.

From BBC

“Arirang” is the title of an ancient Korean folk song that is believed to be at least 600 years old and is still sung to this day.

From Salon

The title takes its name from a folk song about longing and separation that is often dubbed South Korea's unofficial national anthem.

From Barron's

The album's title, Arirang, is also the name of Korea's most beloved folk song, a sentimental anthem about moving from hardship towards something better.

From BBC