folk music

NOUN

traditional songs and music

Synonyms

STRONGEST

country music

WEAK

balladry ethnic music ethnomusicology folk folk ballads folk songs regional music

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

With a deep passion for American blues and folk traditions, Moreno wondered if she could integrate those sounds with elements of Latin American folk music.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 27, 2026

It’s not just about folk music; it’s about the artists — the people, really — who make it.

From Salon • Feb. 5, 2026

British folk music comedy-drama, The Ballad of Wallis Island, has also done well, with representation in five categories including best film and outstanding British film.

From BBC • Jan. 9, 2026

There will also be comedy at the Assembly Rooms and a candlelit folk music performance at St Giles' Cathedral.

From BBC • Dec. 28, 2025

Many of our most popular American children’s songs hail from centuries of ballads, hymns, popular and folk music of early New Englanders, Scottish, and English settlers inhabiting Appalachia, and African and European descendants.

From "Music and the Child" by Natalie Sarrazin