Pronunciation: [mˈɪnstɹə͡l] (IPA) 
The word "minstrel" is spelled with an "i" and not an "e" because it derives from the Old French word "menestrel". In IPA phonetic transcription, this word is pronounced /ˈmɪnstrəl/. The "i" in the spelling represents the short "i" sound /ɪ/ in English. The word refers to a musician or singer who performs in medieval times, often in royal courts or for the entertainment of the common people.
A minstrel is a noun that refers to a medieval musical entertainer or performer. Historically, minstrels were known for their musical talents, storytelling abilities, and performances at courts, noble households, and public events. They would often travel from place to place, entertaining audiences with a variety of skills such as singing, playing musical instruments like the lute or harp, and reciting poetry or tales of chivalry. They were highly skilled in the art of improvisation and had a deep knowledge of musical traditions.
Beyond their musical performances, minstrels were also known for their colorful costumes, often adorned with bells, feathers, and hoods, which added to their allure and spectacle. They would often present themselves as jesters or fools, using humor and satire to engage their audience.
In addition to their musical talents, minstrels were responsible for preserving and transmitting cultural and historical knowledge through their songs and stories. They played a significant role in the dissemination of legends, myths, and accounts of important historical events, thus acting as repositories of cultural heritage.
Today, the term has evolved to encompass broader meanings. It can also refer to performers who engage in folk, country, or popular music genres, or those who engage in humorous or satirical performances. The term "minstrel" evokes a sense of musical artistry, storytelling, and entertainment, while also reflecting a historical context of medieval entertainers and their rich cultural impact.
In the middle ages, one of a body of men whose profession it was to recount heroic deeds in verse, often composed by themselves, and to sing them to the harp; a national poet who writes poetry recounting the heroic deeds of the past; a portrayer in verse of national deeds and character, and of home life in the past; a musician.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "minstrel" originated from the Old French word "menestrel", which referred to a medieval musical entertainer. "Menestrel" itself was derived from the Late Latin term "ministralis", meaning "servant" or "attendant". In medieval times, minstrels were professional performers who traveled from place to place, singing songs, reciting poems, and often playing musical instruments. Over time, the term "minstrel" expanded its meaning to include any traveling musician or entertainer.
