serenade
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: //ˌsɛrəˈneɪd//
KK: /ˈsɛrəˌneɪd/
intransitive verb
Definition
To perform a musical piece, often in the open air, usually to express love or admiration.
Example
He decided to serenade her under the stars with his guitar.
Tense Forms
Past: serenaded
Past Participle: serenaded
Conversation
Have you ever heard someone serenade someone else?
Yeah, I saw it once at a park, it was so romantic!
I wish I could serenade someone like that someday.
You should! It would be such a memorable moment.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
sing
charm
entertain
Antonyms
silence
dissuade
bore
noun
Definition
A musical performance given to honor someone or express love, often performed outdoors at night.
Example
He played a beautiful serenade for her under the stars.
Conversation
Did you hear that beautiful serenade last night?
Yeah, it was so romantic!
I wonder who was singing it for someone special.
transitive verb
Definition
To perform a piece of music, often in a romantic or gentle manner, usually outdoors and for someone special.
Example
He decided to serenade her under the stars with his guitar.
Tense Forms
Past: serenaded
Past Participle: serenaded
Conversation
Did you hear that Jake is going to serenade Emily tonight?
No way! That's so romantic of him!
I know, right? I can't wait to see her reaction when he starts to serenade her.
Root Explanation
**Serenade** → It is derived from the Italian word *serenata*, which comes from *sereno* (meaning calm or clear). The word originally referred to a musical performance in the evening, typically intended to be soothing or romantic. The term reflects the idea of a calm evening performance meant to charm or entertain.
Memory Tip
Imagine a calm evening where someone plays soothing music to charm another person — that's the essence of a serenade.
Visually Confused Words
unserenaded
sternad
grenade