# Derry

/ˈdɛɹi/ (US) · /dˈɛɹi/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/derry
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a word used in old songs that does not have a real meaning. It is often part of a repeating chorus like 'hey nonny derry'.

For teachers: a meaningless word used as a refrain or chorus in traditional English songs and ballads.

## Examples

- The singer ended each verse with a loud derry down.
- Folk songs from the eighteenth century often featured nonsense syllables like derry to maintain the rhythm of the chorus.
- While the lyrics of the ballad tell a tragic story, the repetitive derry refrain provides a rhythmic structure that allows the audience to join in during the performance.

## Usage notes

- Typically used in the context of music or poetry; often appears in the phrase 'derry down'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.