WordWeight : Weighing the Words

Pronunciation : Bal"let`
Part of Speech : n.
Etymology : [F., a dim. of bal dance. See 2d Ball, n.]
Definition : 1. An artistic dance performed as a theatrical entertainment, or an interlude, by a number of persons, usually women. Sometimes, a scene accompanied by pantomime and dancing.

2. The company of persons who perform the ballet.

3. (Mus.)

Defn: A light part song, or madrigal, with a fa la burden or chorus, -- most common with the Elizabethan madrigal composers.

4. (Her.)

Defn: A bearing in coats of arms, representing one or more balls, which are denominated bezants, plates, etc., according to color.
Source : Webster's Unabridged Dictionary, 1913