1. = LYRIC a. Also, having the qualities or characteristics of lyric poetry.
1581. Sidney, Apol. Poetrie (Arb.), 67. Other sorts of Poetry almost haue we none, but that Lyricall kind of Songs and Sonnets.
1623. Cockeram, III. Alceus, a famous liricall Poet.
1685. Dryden, Pref. 2nd Misc., Ess. (ed. Ker), I. 267. Somewhat of a finer turn and more lyrical verse, is yet wanting. Ibid. (1697), Ded. Æneis, ibid. II. 230. Mr. Cowley had found out that no kind of staff is proper for a heroic poem, as being all too lyrical.
1795. Mason, Ch. Mus., iii. 195. Compleat Psalms … of sufficient brevity … should have the preference, because they form a Lyrical whole.
1798. (title) Lyrical Ballads.
1838. Thirlwall, Greece, II. xii. 123. The loss we have suffered in the masterpieces of Greek lyrical poetry.
1853. Maurice, Proph. & Kings, xix. 326. The lyrical freedom and richness of Isaiah’s [style].
2. Resembling what is found in lyric poetry.
1817. Coleridge, Satyrane’s Lett., i. 194. Passing with a very lyrical transition to the subject of general politics.
1898. G. Parker, Battle of the Strong, viii. 55. The Chevalier paused, frowned a trifle, and tapped his lips with his fingers in a little lyrical emotion.
Hence Lyrically adv., Lyricalness.
1803. W. Taylor, in Robberds, Mem., I. 443. A great deal is told by implication, and too lyrically.
1894. Temple Bar, CI. 601. Lyricalness is the special mark of De Banville.
1900. Q. Rev., Oct., 434. He had handled, in a lyrically dramatic form, that legend of the Bride of Corinth.
