Cantiga

/kænˈtiːɡə/ noun

Definition

A lyrical poem, song, or ballad, especially from medieval Spanish or Portuguese literature and music.

Etymology

From Latin 'canticum' (song) through Iberian Romance language development, particularly in Galician-Portuguese and Castilian Spanish. The term became especially prominent during the medieval period when troubadours and courtly musicians flourished in the Iberian Peninsula.

Kelly Says

The Cantigas de Santa María (Canticles of Holy Mary) are some of the most beautiful surviving medieval songs—written in the 13th century by King Alfonso X of Castile, they feature stunning illustrations and mix sacred and secular music! They're proof that medieval Spain was a musical and literary powerhouse.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.