folklore
FOHK-lor
/ˈfəʊklɔː(r)/
The traditional beliefs, customs, and stories of a community, passed through the generations by word of mouth.
Folklore is broader than just stories; it includes music, dance, proverbs, and jokes shared by a specific group of people.
The story behind the word. The term was coined in 1846 by William Thoms. He wanted a good Anglo-Saxon word to replace the clunky 'popular antiquities.' He combined 'folk' (the common people) and 'lore' (knowledge or learning).
Word relationships
- oral tradition: Oral tradition is the method of transmission, while folklore is the content itself.
Commonly confused with
- mythology: Mythology usually involves a formal system of gods; folklore is more localized and everyday.
Word family
- folklorist (noun): A person who studies folklore.
- folkloric (adjective): Relating to folklore.
Collocations
- traditional folklore
- local folklore
- folklore and mythology
- elements of folklore
Example sentences
- "Irish folklore is rich with tales of leprechauns, banshees, and other supernatural beings." Cultural Studies
- "The professor spent years traveling through the Appalachian mountains to document local folklore." Academic Research
Memory hook
It is the 'Lore' of the 'Folk'—the knowledge of the common people. The people's wisdom.
When not to use
Don't use it for high-culture literature or religious scripture; it specifically refers to 'the people's' culture.
Fun facts
- Before the word 'folklore' was invented, people often used the term 'popular antiquities' to describe these traditions.
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