'ballad' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'ballade,' ultimately from Late Latin 'ballata', where 'ballare' meant 'to dance'.

'ballad' changed from Old French 'ballade' (a dance-song) into Middle English as 'ballad' and eventually became the modern English word 'ballad'.

Initially, it meant 'a dance-song' or 'something danced to,' but over time it evolved into its current meanings of 'a narrative song or poem' and 'a slow sentimental song'.