noun
Uncommon
alba
AL-buh
Alba (noun) means a traditional form of lyric poetry, often Provençal in origin, describing lovers parting at daybreak. Example: “Medieval troubadours composed albas about secret lovers forced apart at dawn.”
noun
1
A traditional form of lyric poetry, often Provençal in origin, describing lovers parting at daybreak.
"Medieval troubadours composed albas about secret lovers forced apart at dawn."
name
1
A poetic or historic name for Scotland, especially the early medieval Kingdom of Alba.
"Alba is still used as a Gaelic name for Scotland today."
2
A female given name derived from the Spanish word for "dawn."
"Alba has become a popular given name in Spanish-speaking countries in recent decades."
How to use alba
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishDepending on context: a dawn-themed poem form, an old name for Scotland, or a modern Spanish female name.
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Word forms
- Plural
- albas
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Medieval troubadours composed _____ about secret lovers forced apart at dawn.
Etymology
Ultimately from Latin albus, "white," which also gives the Spanish word alba, "dawn."
Synonyms
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Frequently asked questions
What does “alba” mean?
The word “alba” means a traditional form of lyric poetry, often Provençal in origin, describing lovers parting at daybreak. In plain terms, depending on context: a dawn-themed poem form, an old name for Scotland, or a modern Spanish female name.
How do you pronounce “alba”?
“Alba” is pronounced AL-buh (/ˈæl.bə/ in IPA).
How do you use “alba” in a sentence?
Here is “alba” used in a sentence: “Medieval troubadours composed albas about secret lovers forced apart at dawn.”
What part of speech is “alba”?
Depending on how it is used, “alba” can be a noun and a name.
Where does the word “alba” come from?
The word “alba” comes from Latin. Ultimately from Latin albus, "white," which also gives the Spanish word alba, "dawn.".
Is “alba” a common word?
“Alba” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “alba” have?
“Alba” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a traditional form of lyric poetry, often Provençal in origin, describing lovers parting at daybreak.
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