lyrics
LIHR-ihks
Lyrics (noun) means the words that make up a song. Example: “She memorised the lyrics to every song on the album.”
noun
1
The words that make up a song.
"She memorised the lyrics to every song on the album."
"The lyrics tackle themes of loss and resilience."
"I can't hear the lyrics because the music is so loud."
"He struggled to memorize the lyrics."
"The song’s lyrics were full of nostalgia."
How to use lyrics
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe written or sung words of a song.
Common pairings
song lyrics
write lyrics
lyrics video
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Etymology
Plural of "lyric", from Latin lyricus, ultimately from Greek lura, "lyre".
Synonyms
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Frequently asked questions
What does “lyrics” mean?
The word “lyrics” means the words that make up a song. In plain terms, the written or sung words of a song.
How do you pronounce “lyrics”?
“Lyrics” is pronounced LIHR-ihks (/ˈlɪɹ.ɪks/ in IPA).
How do you use “lyrics” in a sentence?
Here is “lyrics” used in a sentence: “She memorised the lyrics to every song on the album.”
What part of speech is “lyrics”?
“Lyrics” is a noun.
Where does the word “lyrics” come from?
The word “lyrics” comes from Latin. Plural of "lyric", from Latin lyricus, ultimately from Greek lura, "lyre".
Is “lyrics” a common word?
“Lyrics” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
What is the difference between "lyrics" and "melody"?
"Lyrics" are the words of a song. The "melody" is the tune — the arrangement of musical notes you sing or hum. A song combines lyrics (what you say) with a melody (how it sounds).
What is the difference between "lyrics" and a "poem"?
"Lyrics" are written to be sung and set to music, so they depend on melody and rhythm. A "poem" is written to be read or spoken and stands on its own without music. Some lyrics read like poetry, but they are shaped by the song.
What is the difference between "lyric" and "lyrics"?
"Lyrics" (plural) refers to the words of a song. "Lyric" (singular) can mean a single line or the words as a whole, and as an adjective it describes poetry that expresses personal emotion. In everyday talk about songs, "lyrics" is the usual form.
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