Definition

1. Noun:

   • A poet, especially one who writes lyric or epic poetry: Historically, a "bard" was a poet and storyteller in ancient Celtic cultures who composed and recited verses about heroes and their deeds. In modern usage, it often refers to any poet, particularly one who writes in a lyrical or elevated style.
   • An ornamental covering for a horse: In historical and heraldic contexts, a "bard" is a piece of armor or a decorative caparison used to cover and protect a warhorse.

2. Verb:

   • To put a caparison on a horse: To adorn or equip a horse with a decorative or protective covering.

Examples of Usage

• Noun (Poet):
  • The ancient bard recited tales of legendary warriors around the fire.
  • William Shakespeare is often called the Bard of Avon.
• Noun (Horse Covering):
  • The knight's steed was fitted with a magnificent bard for the tournament.
• Verb:
  • They will bard the horses for the royal procession.

Advanced Usage

• "The Bard": A title commonly used to refer specifically to William Shakespeare.
  • We are studying the works of the Bard this semester.
• "Bardic" (Adjective): Relating to bards or their poetry.
  • The ceremony had a bardic quality, with poems recited in an ancient style.

Variants and Related Words

• Bardic (adj): Of or relating to bards or their craft.
  • He was known for his bardic performances.
• Bardship (n, archaic): The office or art of a bard.

Synonyms

• Poet: A person who writes poems.
• Minstrel: A medieval poet and musician who sang or recited verse.
• Troubadour: A lyric poet or composer in medieval France and Italy.
• Caparison (n): An ornamental covering for a horse.

Related Phrases

• Bard of Avon: A specific epithet for William Shakespeare, who was born and buried in Stratford-upon-Avon.
  • The Bard of Avon's plays are performed worldwide.

Noun

1. an ornamental caparison for a horse
2. a lyric poet

Verb

1. put a caparison on
   • caparison the horses for the festive occasion