plural songs
1
: the act or art of singing
rejoice in song
a culture famous for its song
2
: poetical composition
a hero honored in song and story
3
a
: a short musical composition of words and music
He sang a love song.
My favorite song was playing on the radio.
b
: a collection of such compositions
The wish to gather and preserve popular song …—Louise Pound
4
: a distinctive or characteristic sound or series of sounds (as of a bird, insect, or whale)
the song of a sparrow
5
a
: a melody for a lyric poem or ballad
whistle a song
b
: an instrumental composition suggestive of vocal music (as in quality or technique)
c
: a poem intended or suited to be set to music
This year's middle-school musical is a story of adventure and courage, featuring … Tolkien's songs set to original music.—The Berkshire Eagle
6
a
: a habitual or characteristic manner (as of speaking, reacting, or arguing)
Let's see how many of them are singing a different song [=have changed their minds] 15 or 20 years from now.—John Steigerwald
Perhaps once my internet is improved I will change my song on this, but for now, … it's just not feasible …—Zoe Hawkins
also
: an often repeated statement, reaction, or sentiment
It is the same old song of misplaced optimism that has fueled the last few bear market rallies. —Bill Schmick
b
: a forceful, harsh, or noisy reaction
put up quite a song
7
: a small amount
The company sold for a song.
Cite this Entry
“Song.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/song. Accessed 14 Aug. 2026.
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