The word "lyric" is spelled with a silent "y" followed by the letter "r". The correct IPA phonetic transcription of "lyric" is /ˈlɪrɪk/. The first syllable "li" is pronounced with a short "i" sound, while the second syllable "ric" is pronounced with a long "e" sound. The silent "y" in the spelling of "lyric" is a remnant of the word's earlier Latin root "lyricus". This word has been used to describe poetry that is meant to be set to music, or a song with a prominent melody.
Lyric is a term with multiple meanings depending on the context. In the field of literature, a lyric refers to a type of poem, often characterized by its musical quality and emotional expressiveness. These poems are typically short and convey the thoughts and feelings of the poet. Lyric poems are often associated with personal experiences, love, beauty, and intense emotions. The primary purpose of a lyric poem is to evoke an emotional response from the reader.
In the realm of music, a lyric refers to the words or text of a song, particularly those that are sung rather than spoken. Lyrics in music often adopt poetic elements and follow a rhythmic pattern. They serve as the vehicle for the songwriter to express ideas, tell stories, convey emotions, or communicate messages to the listeners. Lyrics can encompass a wide range of themes and genres, such as love songs, protest songs, storytelling ballads, or social commentaries.
Furthermore, lyric can also be used to describe a style or quality in artistic expression, characterized by its personal and emotional nature. For example, a lyric voice in singing or a lyric touch in piano playing refers to a tender, emotive, and expressive delivery of the musical piece.
Overall, lyric is a term that encapsulates the essence of emotional expression in various forms of artistic communication, be it in poetry, music, or other forms of artistic expression.
• Sung, or fitted to be sung, to the harp or lyre; applied to that kind of poetry, unequal in measure, which is adapted to musical recitative, or which may express the emotions of the writer.
• A lyrical composition.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "lyric" originates from the Latin word "lyricus", which itself derives from the Greek word "lyrikos". The Greek term is connected to the word "lyra", which refers to a musical instrument similar to a small harp. The original meaning of "lyricos" in Greek was "sung to the lyre". Over time, the term evolved to encompass any poetry meant to be sung with musical accompaniment. Today, "lyric" generally refers to a type of poetry that expresses personal emotions and feelings, often with a musical quality.