serenade

American  

[ser-uh-neyd] / ˌsɛr əˈneɪd /

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.

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verb (used with or without object)

serenaded, serenading

1. to entertain with or perform a serenade.

serenade British  

/ 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

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verb

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

2. (intr) to play a serenade

Other Word Forms

• serenader noun
• unserenaded adjective

Etymology

Origin of serenade

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

Example Sentences

At the very least, there is every reason to ignore the stale serenade of the bank lobby that any regulation will only hurt the people we are trying to help.

From Los Angeles Times

A teenager's dream came true after her favourite singer serenaded her in front of thousands of people and helped raise awareness of a medical condition.

From BBC

Its descending bass line, colored by Fender Rhodes piano and Mr. Frampton’s tender vocals, result in a soulful serenade: “Wanna be with you night and day / Ooh, baby, I love your way.”

From The Wall Street Journal

Semenyo, who was celebrating his 26th birthday, was given a standing ovation when he was substituted moments after his winner before being serenaded by Bournemouth supporters following the fairytale ending.

From Barron's

City's sixth successive win in the Premier League sparked a jubilant response from Guardiola, who was serenaded by City's travelling fans as he celebrated in front of them after the final whistle.

From Barron's