minstrel
4 synonyms for minstrel, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A traveling medieval entertainer who sang and recited poetry, usually with musical accompaniment.
Synonyms
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Etymology
From Old French menestrel ("entertainer, servant"), tracing back to Latin minister ("servant, attendant") — the same root as "minister."
Full origin of minstrel →Frequently asked questions
What does “minstrel” mean?
The word “minstrel” means a traveling medieval entertainer who sang and recited poetry, usually with musical accompaniment. In plain terms, a traveling singer-poet from medieval times — though the word later also named a racist 19th-century stage act you should know about but not use casually.
How do you pronounce “minstrel”?
“Minstrel” is pronounced MIHNSTRL (/ˈmɪnstɹ(ə)l/ in IPA).
How do you use “minstrel” in a sentence?
Here is “minstrel” used in a sentence: “A lone minstrel wandered from castle to castle, singing ballads for coins.”
What part of speech is “minstrel”?
“Minstrel” is a noun.
Where does the word “minstrel” come from?
The word “minstrel” comes from Latin. From Old French menestrel ("entertainer, servant"), tracing back to Latin minister ("servant, attendant") — the same root as "minister.".
How many meanings does “minstrel” have?
“Minstrel” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a traveling medieval entertainer who sang and recited poetry, usually with musical accompaniment.
