noun

das Lied, -er

song

Eine kurze musikalische Komposition mit Text, die gesungen wird.

Definition & meaning

A "Lied" is a musical composition intended to be performed by the human voice. It generally consists of a combination of lyrics (text) and a melody.

In a general sense, the term covers any type of song, including folk songs, pop songs, and carols. However, in a specialized musical context—often recognized internationally—it refers to the "Kunstlied" (art song). This is a specific tradition of German set-to-music poetry, most notably from the Romantic period, where a singer is accompanied by a piano.

The word can also be used figuratively in expressions, such as "ein Lied von etwas singen können," which means to know something through painful or extensive experience (to be able to "sing a song" about it).

Grammar & Word origin

The word "Lied" is a neuter noun (das Lied). Its plural form is "Lieder".

Etymologically, it stems from the Middle High German "liet" and the Old High German "liod". Originally, in the Middle Ages, the word referred to a single strophe or verse of a poem, rather than the entire musical work. It is related to the Old English "lēoþ" and Old Norse "ljóð".

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms:

Gesang: Refers to the act of singing or a more formal vocal piece.
Song: Frequently used in German specifically to refer to modern pop, rock, or jazz music.
Weise: An older, more poetic term for a melody or a simple song.
Schlager: A specific genre of catchy, popular German vocal music.
Hymne: A song of praise or a national anthem.
Chanson: Often used to describe artistic, lyric-driven French or French-style songs.