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.
BALL-FLOWER
Ball"-flow`er, n. (Arch.)
Defn: An ornament resembling a ball placed in a circular flower, the petals of which form a cup round it, — usually inserted in a hollow molding.
BALLISTA Bal*lis"ta, n.; pl. Ballist. Etym: [L. ballista, balista, fr. Gr. to throw.]
Defn: An ancient military engine, in the form of a crossbow, used for hurling large missiles.