VocabDictionary

folklore

/ˈfoʊk.lɔːr/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

The traditional beliefs, customs, stories, songs, and dances of a culture or community, passed down through generations by word of mouth.

Example Sentences:
  • Irish folklore is rich with tales of mischievous leprechauns and ancient Celtic gods.
  • The villagers preserved their local folklore by singing traditional songs during the winter festivals.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “folklore”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Coined in 1846 by the English antiquary William John Thoms, who wrote to the journal 'Athenaeum' proposing the compound word 'folk-lore' to replace various clumsy terms like 'popular antiquities' or 'popular literature'. It combines 'folk' (meaning the common people or a traditional group) and 'lore' (meaning traditional knowledge or learning).

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of stories told by 'folk' (people) about ancient 'lore' (knowledge).

Frequently Asked Questions About “folklore

1. What is the meaning of “folklore” in English?

In English, folklore (noun) is defined as: “The traditional beliefs, customs, stories, songs, and dances of a culture or community, passed down through generations by word of mouth.”.

2. How do you use “folklore” in a sentence?

Irish folklore is rich with tales of mischievous leprechauns and ancient Celtic gods.

3. What are English synonyms of “folklore”?

Common synonyms include:mythology,tradition,legends,lore

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “folklore”?

Coined in 1846 by the English antiquary William John Thoms, who wrote to the journal 'Athenaeum' proposing the compound word 'folk-lore' to replace various clumsy terms like 'popular antiquities' or 'popular literature'. It combines 'folk' (meaning the common people or a traditional group) and 'lore' (meaning traditional knowledge or learning).