n. A Portuguese folk song, usually featuring a single vocalist, Portuguese guitar and sometimes classical guitar. Lyrical themes are often melancholic in nature; the structure of the song is of greater importance.
The Century Dictionary and Cyclopedia
n. A Portuguese form of folk-song. See the extract.
n. A Portuguese dance common among the lower classes, or the music for it. The characteristic pattern of the music is
WordNet 3.0 Copyright 2006 by Princeton University. All rights reserved.
n. a sad Portuguese folksong
Word Usage
"The music style known as fado, from the Portuguese for "fate," or "destiny," can be traced back to the early nineteenth century and is characterized by its mournful tunes and lyrics."