griot

/griˈoʊ/

Other forms: griots

In West Africa, a griot is a storyteller, poet, or musician. The performances of griots often involve relaying the history and genealogy of a particular tribe.

In many parts of West Africa, including Mali, Senegal, and Niger, griots act as troubadours or minstrels, entertaining audiences with songs and stories. At the same time, griots are responsible for keeping history, traditions, and family stories alive. They also frequently keep up on current events and report local news. These wandering bards have always been considered high-ranking members of society.

Definitions of griot

1. noun

   a storyteller in West Africa; perpetuates the oral traditions of a family or village
   type of:

   narrator, storyteller, teller

   someone who tells a story