serenade

[ ser-uh-neyd ]

noun

1. a complimentary performance of vocal or instrumental music in the open air at night, as by a lover under the window of his lady.
2. a piece of music suitable for such performance.
3. serenata ( def 2 ).

verb (used with or without object)

, ser·e·nad·ed, ser·e·nad·ing.

1. to entertain with or perform a serenade.

serenade

/ ˌsɛrɪˈneɪd /

noun

1. a piece of music appropriate to the evening, characteristically played outside the house of a woman
2. a piece of music indicative or suggestive of this
3. an extended composition in several movements similar to the modern suite or divertimento

verb

1. tr to play a serenade for (someone)
2. intr to play a serenade

Derived Forms

• ˌsereˈnader, noun

Other Words From

• sere·nader noun
• unser·e·naded adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of serenade¹

1640–50; < French sérénade < Italian serenata; serenata

Word History and Origins

Origin of serenade¹

C17: from French sérénade, from Italian serenata, from sereno peaceful, from Latin serēnus calm; also influenced in meaning by Italian sera evening, from Latin sērus late