Pronunciation: [fˈə͡ʊksɒŋ] (IPA) 
The word "folksong" is spelled with two syllables, with the stress on the first syllable. The first part of the word, "folk," is pronounced with a long "o" sound, IPA symbol /oʊ/. The second syllable, "song," is pronounced with a short "o" sound, IPA symbol /ɒ/. The combination of these two sounds creates the word "folksong," which refers to a traditional or popular song that is typically passed down within a community or culture.
A folksong is a traditional or popular song that is passed down through generations within a specific cultural or regional group. Typically, these songs reflect the everyday lives, experiences, and values of the people within the community. Folksongs often have simple melodies and repetitive structures, making them easily memorable and accessible to a wide range of people.
These songs are typically learned through oral tradition, as they are passed down from one generation to the next through singing or telling stories. Due to their oral nature, folksongs often undergo variations and adaptations as they are transmitted from person to person, leading to multiple versions of the same song existing within different communities or regions.
Folksongs can be found in various cultures around the world and can cover a wide range of themes, including love, hardship, joy, labor, war, and social or political commentary. Many folksongs have deep historical and cultural significance, serving as a means of preserving and transmitting the traditions, values, and stories of a particular group or community.
In contemporary times, folksongs continue to be appreciated and enjoyed for their cultural heritage and emotional resonance. They have also influenced various genres of music, including folk, country, blues, and rock, with many modern artists drawing inspiration from and incorporating elements of traditional folksongs into their own compositions.
The word "folksong" is derived from two separate components.
The term "folk" originates from the Old English word "folc", which referred to the common people or the general population. Over time, it evolved into "folk" and gained the meaning of a particular group tied together by a common culture, tradition, or heritage. In the context of "folksong", the term "folk" implies that the songs are created and passed down by ordinary people within a specific community or region.
The word "song" stems from the Old English word "sang", which referred to the act of singing or a composition to be sung. It has remained relatively unchanged in Middle English and Modern English, still serving to describe a musical composition in the form of vocal sounds.
